Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease affects the blood vessels to the fingers and toes and less occasionally the nose, ears nipples and lips. Decreased blood flow causes the area affected to turn white then blueish. When the symptoms occur without any known cause, it is called Raynaud's disease but when the symptoms occur with a likely cause, it is referred to as Raynaud's phenomenon. Raynaud's disease tends to be more common and less severe than Raynaud's phenomenon.
Fast Facts
- More common in women
- Can be caused by cold or stress
- Affected areas can become numb or tingly
- Named after Maurice Raynaud
- Doesn't always affect the same digits
- Prevention: avoid cold, dress warm, quit smoking, reduce anxiety
- Types: primary and secondary
- Doctor may prescribe medicines that relax the walls of the blood vessels
- Affects 5% of the United States
- Only 1 in 5 sufferers seek treatment
- Rheumatologists are most knowledgeable about Raynaud's disease
- Seen in all population groups
- Can also occur in air-conditioned spaces
- Sometimes symptoms disappear
Symptoms
People with Raynaud's disease have attacks in response to cold or stress. Some of the symptoms of the affected body parts during these attacks include paleness, due to lack of blood flow, bluish color, due to lack of oxygen, a feeling of numbness, coldness or pain. Attacks of Raynaud's disease usually last about 15 minutes but can last several hours and can occur daily or weekly.
Treatment
There is no cure for Raynaud's disease but lifestyle changes have proven to reduce the attacks. The key is to avoid the triggers that bring on the attacks. Some of these changes would include keeping the affected areas covered and warm in cold weather. Limit the use of vibrating tools. Wear protective gear when dealing with chemicals. People with Raynaud's disease should also avoid beta blockers, over the counter cold and allergy remedies or diet aids.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Raynaud's Disease, please consult your doctor.
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