Also known as: Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's disease causes some areas of the body — usually fingers and toes — to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress, due to excessive narrowing of blood vessels.
Raynaud's affects 3-5% of the general population. Primary Raynaud's (no underlying disease) is by far the most common and is generally benign. Secondary Raynaud's is associated with connective tissue diseases.
During an attack, blood vessels in the fingers (and sometimes toes, ears, or nose) constrict excessively, causing a characteristic colour sequence: white (ischaemia), blue (deoxygenation), and red (reperfusion).
Primary Raynaud's requires only lifestyle measures. Secondary Raynaud's may need calcium channel blockers and investigation for underlying autoimmune disease.
People with Raynaud's Disease often experience the following symptoms.
White (pallor from vasoconstriction), blue (cyanosis), then red (reactive hyperaemia) in affected digits.
Loss of sensation during the white phase, followed by pins and needles during reperfusion.
Throbbing or burning pain during the reperfusion (red) phase.
Painful sores on fingertips in severe secondary Raynaud's from critical ischaemia.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Raynaud's Disease.
Common approaches to managing raynaud's disease. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Keeping warm, wearing insulated gloves, avoiding sudden temperature changes, and reducing stress.
Nifedipine is first-line medication, dilating blood vessels to reduce attack frequency and severity.
Hand warmers, heated gloves, and warm water immersion during attacks.
Sildenafil for severe cases not responding to calcium channel blockers.
Clinical diagnosis based on history of episodic colour changes. Nailfold capillaroscopy and autoimmune antibody panel (ANA, anti-centromere, anti-Scl-70) to distinguish primary from secondary.
See a doctor if attacks are severe, one-sided, or accompanied by skin ulcers, sores, or thickened skin, which may indicate secondary Raynaud's with an underlying autoimmune condition.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening raynaud's disease.
Keep extremities warm
Avoid rapid temperature changes
Stop smoking
Manage stress
If left untreated or poorly managed, raynaud's disease may lead to:
Primary Raynaud's is benign. Secondary Raynaud's can be serious and may indicate underlying autoimmune disease requiring treatment.
Primary Raynaud's may improve over time. Secondary Raynaud's persists as long as the underlying condition is active.
Cold temperatures (even brief exposure), emotional stress, and vibrating tools are common triggers.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.