Raynaud's Diaseas

• Raynaud’s disease, also called Raynaud’s phenomenon or Raynaud’s syndrome, is a condition that causes some areas of the body—usually fingers and toes—to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. This happens because the small blood vessels in those areas narrow suddenly, limiting blood flow.

​

• There are two types:

1. Primary Raynaud’s: More common and milder; no underlying condition.

2. Secondary Raynaud’s: Less common but more serious; linked to other diseases like scleroderma, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.

The exact cause of primary Raynaud’s is unknown, but it’s related to overreaction of blood vessels to cold or stress.

​

Secondary Raynaud’s is usually linked to:

• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, scleroderma)

• Arterial diseases (atherosclerosis)

• Injuries or repetitive motions (e.g., typing, playing piano)

• Smoking (constricts blood vessels)

• Certain medications (beta-blockers, migraine drugs, some chemotherapy agents)

• Raynaud’s usually affects the fingers and toes, but can also affect the nose, ears, lips, or nipples.

​

• Common signs during an attack include:

  • Color changes in the skin: White → Blue → Red

  • Coldness and numbness in affected areas

  • Tingling or throbbing pain when blood flow returns

  • Skin tightness or discomfort

​

• Episodes can last a few minutes to hours, depending on severity and trigger.

• There is no cure, but medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks, improve blood flow, and manage related symptoms.

​

1. Calcium Channel Blockers

• Most commonly prescribed for Raynaud’s.

​

• How they help:

  • Relax and open small blood vessels in the hands and feet

  • Reduce the severity and number of attacks

​

• Examples:

  • Nifedipine

  • Amlodipine

  • Diltiazem

​

• Often the first choice for treatment

• May cause headache, swelling, or dizziness

​

2. Vasodilators

• These expand blood vessels, improving blood flow.

​

• Examples:

  • Nitroglycerin cream (applied to fingers or toes)

  • Losartan (also used for high blood pressure)

  • Sildenafil (Viagra) – Sometimes used off-label

  • Fluoxetine – Also used for depression but helps improve circulation

​

3. Alpha-Blockers

• Help relax blood vessel walls and reduce nerve signals that narrow vessels.

​

• Examples:

  • Prazosin

  • Doxazosin

​

4. Antiplatelet Drugs (In severe cases)

• Help prevent blood clots in patients with very poor circulation.

​

• Examples:

  • Aspirin (low dose) – Sometimes used to improve blood flow

​

5. Immunosuppressants

• Used if Raynaud’s is caused by autoimmune conditions like lupus or scleroderma.

​

• Examples:

  • Methotrexate

  • Mycophenolate

  • Corticosteroids (short-term use)

• Common Side Effects:

  • Headache

  • Flushing or dizziness

  • Swelling in ankles or feet

  • Low blood pressure

  • Fatigue or upset stomach

​

• Seek medical help for:

  • Chest pain

  • Severe dizziness or fainting

  • Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Doctors usually diagnose Raynaud’s based on:

  • Symptom history and physical exam

  • Nailfold capillaroscopy (examining blood vessels under the nails)

  • Blood tests to check for autoimmune diseases (in secondary Raynaud’s)

  • ANA test, ESR, rheumatoid factor, etc.

• Protect Your Hands and Feet:

  • Wear gloves and warm socks in cold weather

  • Use hand warmers or heating pads

  • Dress in layers and keep your whole body warm

​

• Manage Stress:

  • Practice deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques

​

• Avoid Triggers:

  • Stop smoking (it constricts blood vessels)

  • Limit caffeine and cold exposure

  • Be cautious with medications that narrow blood vessels

​

• Skin Care:

  • Use moisturizers to protect dry, cracked skin

  • Avoid trauma to the fingers and toes

1. Can Raynaud’s go away on its own?

• Primary Raynaud’s may improve with lifestyle changes, but secondary Raynaud’s needs long-term management.

​

2. Are these medications lifelong?

• Not always. It depends on how well symptoms are controlled and whether there’s an underlying disease.

​

3. Can diet help with Raynaud’s?

• A healthy diet that improves circulation (rich in omega-3s, fruits, vegetables) may help support overall vascular health.

​

4. Is exercise safe?

• Yes! Regular, gentle exercise can help improve circulation and reduce symptoms.

​

5. Can Raynaud’s cause permanent damage?

• Rarely, in severe or untreated cases, ulcers, infections, or tissue damage may occur—especially in secondary Raynaud’s.