Also known as Raynauds phenomenon or Raynauds syndrome
ABOUT THE DISEASE
Raynauds disease is a disorder of the blood vessels, usually of the fingers and toes. Other parts of the body that can be affected by Raynaud’s include the ears, nose, nipples and lips. It causes the blood vessels to narrow or go into temporary spasm in response to cold or when feeling stressed. During an attack, the fingers and toes can change colors from white to blue to red. They may also feel cold and numb from lack of blood flow. When the blood flow returns, maybe in 15 minutes, fingers or toes can throb and tingle. Sometimes, it may last for several hours.
There are two types of Raynauds :
• primary – when the condition develops by itself.
• secondary – when it is caused by another health disorder, as autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
SYMPTOMS
- • Color changes in the skin, from pale or white to blue and then red.
- • Numb, cold, or painful fingers and toes.
- • Skin sores or gangrene.
CAUSES
Raynauds phenomenon is the result of over-sensitive blood vessels in the bodys extremities. In many cases, no cause is identified, although its sometimes linked to other health conditions, like :
- Injuries to the hands and feet.
- Exposure to certain chemicals.
- Medicines that narrow the arteries or affect blood pressure.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Cryoglobulinemia, polycythemia.
- Sjögrens syndrome, dermatomyositis, and polymyositis.
- Buergers disease.
DIAGNOSIS
- Clinical Evaluation
- Cold Stimulation Test
- Nailfold Capillaroscopy
TREATMENT METHODS
ÂMeasures like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, managing stress and keeping proper protection in cold environment are very helpful. Besides, treatment options include :
- Medications such as Calcium channel blockers, Alpha blockers, Vasodilators, Beta Blockers.
- Surgery, as Sympathectomy, Botox Injection.
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