I agree that it's likely to be a circulation issue. It sounds similar to a common condition called Raynauds, but I'm no doctor. I have a friend who has the condition since she was a teenager. Warm baths and the constant wearing of gloves/socks helps to avoid 'attacks', though it's much worse during the winter months. Exercise helps her too.
Raynauds Syndrome - NHSdirect UK website
Of course, it could be something entirely different (or nothing in particular).