In relation to Raynaud's disease, what does ischemia refer to?

Ischemia refers to a condition where there is a reduced blood supply to a specific area of the body, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients necessary for cellular metabolism. In the context of Raynaud's disease, which primarily affects blood flow to the fingers and toes, ischemia manifests as a significant reduction in blood supply to these extremities during episodes triggered by cold temperatures or stress. This results in symptoms such as color changes in the skin—pale, blue, or reddish—as well as feelings of numbness or tingling. Understanding the concept of ischemia is crucial for recognizing how Raynaud's disease affects circulation in the fingers and toes.