Raynaud’s Disease

Posted: February 1, 2018 10:42 am

 

Did you know? Women and people who live in colder climates are more prone to getting Raynaud’s disease.

Raynaud’s (ray-NOHZ) disease causes some areas of your body — such as your fingers and toes — to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. In Raynaud’s disease, smaller arteries that supply blood to your skin narrow, limiting blood circulation to affected areas.

Signs and symptoms of Raynaud’s disease include: cold fingers or toes, color changes in your skin in response to cold or stress, and a numb, prickly feeling or stinging pain upon warming or stress relief

During an attack of Raynaud’s, affected areas of your skin usually first turn white. Then, they often turn blue and feel cold and numb. As you warm and circulation improves, the affected areas may turn red, throb, tingle or swell. After warming, it can take 15 minutes for normal blood flow to return to the area.

Did you know? There isn’t a clear cause for a Raynaud’s attack which results in your blood vessels to overreact to cold temperatures or stress.

There are two main types of Raynaud’s: primary which we have just discussed and secondary, which is caused by an underlying problem. Causes of secondary Raynaud’s include: connective tissue disease, diseases of the arteries, carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive action or vibration, smoking, injuries to hands or feet, certain medications.

Lets cover the risk factors: women are more affected than men, primary onset is between ages 15 and 30, colder climates, family history, associated diseases, certain occupations, exposure to smoke or certain medications.

Ways to help prevent Raynaud’s attacks: bundle up outdoors, warm your car, wear socks, and use insulated drinking glasses. Treatment mainly consists of protecting the areas from exposure, in acute cases an injection of lidocaine may be used to help dilate the vessels and improve circulation.

During your visit you will experience a complete foot check. We offer same day scheduling for your convenience. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.

 

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