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Fingers that change color

Blanching of the fingers; Fingers - pale; Toes that change color; Toes - pale

Fingers or toes may change color when they are exposed to cold temperatures or stress, or when there is a problem with their blood supply.

Images

Raynaud's phenomenon
Cryoglobulinemia of the fingers

Causes

These conditions can cause fingers or toes to change color:

Home Care

Things you can do to help prevent this problem include:

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will perform a physical exam, which will include close examination of your hands, arms, and fingers.

Your provider will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

Tests that may be done include:

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Related Information

Blue discoloration of the skin
Raynaud phenomenon

References

Jaff MR, Bartholomew JR. Other peripheral arterial diseases. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 72.

Melville AR, Belch JJF. Raynaud phenomenon. In: Hochberg MC, Gravallese EM, Smolen JS, van der Heijde D, Weinblatt ME, Weisman MH, eds. Rheumatology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 154.

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Review Date: 4/27/2023  

Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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