This condition aggravate with cold exposure. Exposure to cold abnormally reduces blood circulation causing the fingers to become pale, waxy-white or purple. Raynaud's phenomenon has many different causes including workplace exposures. It is most commonly associated with hand-arm vibration syndrome but it is also involved in other occupational diseases. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon and the workplace hazards that cause it.
Awareness can help prevent the disorder from occurring or progressing to a serious stage.
If not detected in the early stages, the disorder can permanently impair blood circulation in the fingers. Although Raynaud's phenomenon is not life threatening, severe cases cause disability and may force workers to leave their jobs. Although rare, severe cases can lead to breakdown of the skin and gangrene. Less severely affected workers sometimes have to change their social activities and work habits to avoid attacks of white finger. Why Raynaud's phenomenon occurs is not well understood.