As the UK braces for freezing temperatures, health officials have issued cold health alerts across England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has an amber alert in place for the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, with a yellow alert for the rest of England from 12pm on Monday until 8am on Friday. The Met Office has also issued snow and ice warnings for parts of Scotland and northern England.
While cold hands and feet are common in winter, a cardiologist warns that persistent symptoms could indicate Raynaud's phenomenon. Dr Sam Firoozi, consultant interventional cardiologist at HCA Healthcare UK's The Harley Street Clinic, explains that in cold weather, blood vessels in the hands and feet constrict to preserve body heat. However, Raynaud's involves an exaggerated response, often linked to conditions such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus.
Dr Firoozi advises seeking medical advice if you experience extreme discolouration that takes a long time to resolve. 'In really cold weather we all have numb fingertips, but if you experience extreme discolouration which takes a long time to correct, then I would seek medical advice,' he says. Permanent changes in the appearance of fingertips or nails are also a cause for concern.
Pain is another red flag. 'Initially, it can feel like a burning pain, associated with numbness, and then it can be a really painful throbbing-like pain,' Dr Firoozi notes. He recommends taking photos of any changes to discuss with your GP.
To stay warm, Dr Firoozi suggests keeping hands in gloves or pockets, using microwave-warmable gels, or heated gloves. The Met Office advises keeping windows closed, heating rooms to 18°C if possible, wearing multiple thin layers, and staying active.
