Symptom 7: Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Although not a skin symptom in the traditional sense, Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common occurrence in people with CLE. This condition involves the blood vessels in the hands and feet, causing them to narrow when the person is cold or stressed.
This narrowing results in reduced blood flow to the fingers and toes, causing them to turn white, then blue, and finally red as the blood flow returns. It can also cause pain, numbness, and a feeling of cold in the affected areas.
Managing Raynaud’s involves protecting the hands and feet from the cold, reducing stress, and, in some cases, medication to dilate the blood vessels. It’s essential for those with CLE to be aware of this symptom, as it can sometimes lead to complications if not properly managed. (7)
