Source: eMedicineHealth - Image courtesy of Shabir Bhimji, MD / Tcal at English Wikipedia / Walt Fletcher at English Wikipedia, What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? Other areas of the body may be affected as well. Skin discoloration occurs because an abnormal spasm of the blood vessels causes diminished blood flow to the local tissues. Taking an active role in your care can help you feel more in charge of your disease. Terms of Use. (Sometimes these medications are decreased or eliminated when the environment is warmer, such as during summer months.) Risk factors for Raynaud's phenomenon include injury from frostbite and vibrating tools, medications (bleomycin [Blenoxane]), propranolol (Inderal), ergotamine), and having rheumatic autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. This three-phase color sequence (white to blue to red), most often upon exposure to cold temperature, is characteristic of RP. Drug-related vasoconstriction, such as with some migraine medications, interferon, or cocaine. Is it possible to prevent Raynaud's phenomenon? Procedures are used less frequently than medications and are most often chosen when nothing else is working for symptoms or when complications such as ulcers occur. These treatments target the sympathetic nerves. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. With secondary Raynaud's phenomenon, thickening of the blood vessel walls, or other changes, may magnify this effect. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can cause blood-vessel constriction and lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can further impair oxygen supply to the extremities. Using chemical- or battery-operated hand or foot warmers can be helpful, as can keeping your hands warm by placing them in your armpits while wiggling your fingers. 12 Products People With Raynaud's Syndrome Swear By Raynaud’s phenomenon , which is a common comorbidity for many of those with chronic illness, can be tricky to manage. Updated September 2019. Discover information about cold feet, itchy feet, burning feet and swollen feet. In patients with persistent symptoms, medications that dilate the blood vessels can be administered. Rubber gloves protect the hands and prevent cooling while washing dishes. The signs and symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome can range from barely detectable to those that greatly limit activities and affect a person's quality of life. Ointments that open the blood vessels (nitroglycerin ointment) are sometimes used on the sides of severely affected digits to allow increased blood supply and healing. Some patients with persistent symptoms can benefit by adding a medication called pentoxifylline (Trental), which makes the red blood cells more pliable and thereby improving circulation. Hypothyroidism is a very common condition and the symptoms of hypothyroidism are often subtle, but may include, constipation, memory loss, hair loss, and depression. Medications that thin the blood, such as low doses of aspirin or dipyridamole (Persantine), are sometimes helpful. The 16 characteristic early RA signs and symptoms include the following. Read our, Medically reviewed by Jonathan Cluett, MD, Medically reviewed by Anita C. Chandrasekaran, MD, MPH, Medically reviewed by Casey Gallagher, MD, Medically reviewed by Rochelle Collins, DO, Medically reviewed by Stuart Hershman, MD. Doctors who treat Raynaud's phenomenon include general-medicine physicians, family medicine physicians, internists, rheumatologists, and hand surgeons. Buerger disease (thromboangiitis obliterans): This condition is usually seen in men who smoke; pulses in the hand or feet may be decreased or absent. The condition may be triggered by stress or extreme changes in temperature, causing decreased blood flow to the extremities (most commonly the fingers and toes). Rarely, poor oxygen supply to the tissue can cause the tips of the digits to ulcerate. Primary Raynaud's is more likely to occur in young women than secondary Raynaud's, with a peak incidence between the ages of 15 and 25. Primary is differentiated from secondary Raynaud's in that there is no underlying medical condition, but a small percentage of people diagnosed with primary Raynaud's will later develop one of the conditions that underlie secondary disease (and the diagnosis will be changed). Occurring as a result of spasm of blood vessels, the cause is unknown. Wear shoes rather than going barefoot. MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Angiotensin-receptor blockers, such as Cozaar or Hyzaar (losartan), may decrease the severity of attacks. Grant Hughes, MD, is a board-certified rheumatologist. Your doctor might order other tests, such as those that rule out diseases of the arteries, to help pinpoint a condition that can be associated with Raynaud's. Blood dyscrasias, such as cryoglobulinemia with multiple myeloma; cold can cause clumping of proteins, red blood cells, platelets, etc. The condition you are describing in your mother's fingers is compatible with Raynaud's phenomenon. If you have a family member with primary Raynaud’s, you’re more at risk of developing it. Symptoms of dry gangrene include numbness, discoloration, and mummification of the affected tissue. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD000467.pub2, Qiu, O., Chan, T., Luen, M., Cruz, J., and E. Hermes-De Santis. The Adults With Disabilities Act requires employers who have 15 or more employees to provide "reasonable accommodations" for those with some medical conditions. There are many ways in which this could help, such as checking out the option for working from home during particularly cold days. Raynaud's phenomenon has been seen with a number of conditions, including rheumatic autoimmune diseases (scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and mixed connective tissue disease), hormone imbalance (hypothyroidism and carcinoid), trauma (frostbite, vibrating tools), medications (propranolol [Inderal], estrogens without additional progesterone, bleomycin [Blenoxane] used in cancer treatment, and ergotamine used for headaches), nicotine, and even rarely with cancers. Certain medications should be avoided. Note: Some energy companies offer some discounts on utility bills for those who suffer from Raynaud's phenomenon because of the additional heating requirements. When it occurs alone, it is referred to as "Raynaud's disease" or primary Raynaud's phenomenon. With continued lack of oxygen, gangrene of the digits can occur. These include: The goals of treatment with Raynaud's syndrome are to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks and prevent complications. (When Raynaud's phenomenon occurs with Buerger disease, it is usually in only one or two digits). 2016. An antinuclear antibody test (ANA) test often done when autoimmune diseases or connective tissue disorders are suspected. In 10-20% of cases, Raynaud's phenomenon is the initial manifestation of an associated underlying connective tissue disease, such as scleroderma, dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease, Sjögren's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis. Gangrene may result when blood flow to a tissue is lost or not adequate to keep the tissue alive. In some cases, it also causes less blood flow to the ears, toes, nipples, knees, or nose. Moderate exercise can improve circulation and can be of benefit. Patients with Raynaud's phenomenon who have no symptoms other than the color changes of extremities may require only home-remedy measures to prevent complications. This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing. Wigley F., and N. Flavahan. Terms of Use. Most people have mild symptoms. When internal organs are involved, the condition is called systemic lupus Compression of the blood vessels by tight-fitting wrist bands, rings, or footwear should be avoided. ©1996-2020 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved. There are a variety of causes of hypothyroidism, and treatment depends on the cause. Most cases of dry gangrene are not infected. See additional information. Treatment. For example, for roughly 30 percent of people with scleroderma, Raynaud's syndrome is the first symptom of the diseaseâand it may be the only symptom for many years.. ; Raynaud's phenomenon occurs because of spasm of blood vessels. Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), unusual antibodies that can bind to certain structures within the nucleus of the cells, are found in patients whose immune system may be predisposed to cause inflammation against their own body tissues. Avoiding emotional stresses and tools that vibrate the hand may reduce the frequency of attacks. Some people need to take this medicine every day. If you have Raynaud’s phenomenon, your treatment will be aimed at keeping attacks from happening or limiting the ones that do. The young, elderly, and patients with certain medical conditions (diabetes, hypothyroidism, circulatory problems, and psychiatric illnesses), are more susceptible to cold weather-related injuries. Others only use it to prevent Raynaud's – for example, during cold weather. Raynaud's phenomenon is a type of vascular disease characterized by a pale to blue to red sequence of color changes of the digits, most commonly after exposure to cold. Protect your hands with mittens or gloves, and your feet with thick socks (some people find it helpful to wear them outside as well as to bed). Also known as Raynaud’s syndrome or Raynaud’s phenomenon, Raynaud’s disease affects 5 to 10 percent of Americans, but only 1 in 10 seek treatment. Symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon can vary from mild to severe. Licensed under CC0 via Wikimedia Commons. Wet gangrene symptoms include swelling, pain, pus, bad smell, and black appearance of the affected tissue. The terms Raynaud’s Phenomenon , Raynaud’s Syndrome or Secondary Raynaud’s are used when there is an underlying disorder or trauma such as scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, frostbite or another condition is present. Other rheumatic diseases frequently associated with RP include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome. erythematosus (SLE). The causes of primary Raynaud's phenomenon and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon are unknown. If your symptoms are very bad or getting worse, a GP may prescribe a medicine to help improve your circulation, such as nifedipine, which is used to treat high blood pressure. Rheumatology International. Organizations such as the Raynaud's Association provide support and education for many people with the condition. Management of Raynaud's phenomenon involves preventing the spasm of the blood vessels by protecting the fingers and the toes from cold, trauma, and infection. Herrick, A. Evidence-Based Management of Raynaud's Phenomenon. This Lupus Quiz covers causes, signs, symptoms, facts, and treatments for this inflammatory autoimmune disease. Barefoot walking should be minimized. Arthritis Foundation. Symptoms of tingling, swelling, and then painful throbbing may occur (more common with secondary Raynaud's syndrome). RP is the initial symptom of a majority of patients with scleroderma, a skin and joint disease. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of body tissues caused by autoimmune disease. Raynaud's syndrome is a condition in which a person's fingers, and sometimes toes, turn blue and/or white upon exposure to cold, and then bright red upon rewarming. There are two procedures that may be done in the office to evaluate possible Raynaud's syndrome: A diagnosis of Raynaud's syndrome may seem obvious, but one cannot be formally made until certain criteria are met.. Updated December 2019, Rinash, F., Tingey, P., Hardy, S. et al. They may also experience mild tingling and numbness of the involved digit(s) that will disappear once the color returns to normal. The doctor can also perform certain maneuvers with the patient's extremities to exclude pinched blood vessels that can produce symptoms that mimic RP, such as in thoracic outlet syndrome. Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition where blood flow to your fingers, toes, ears, or nose is restricted or interrupted. 2018 Aug 22. doi:10.1007/s00296-018-4119-9. There are two types of gangrene: wet and dry. It can also occur as a “secondary” condition related to other diseases, such as scleroderma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Why does it happen? With some of these, Raynaud's phenomenon is very common; for example, 85 percent to 90 percent of people who have scleroderma also experience Raynaud's. It is not as common with others. Beta blockers, medicines used for high blood pressure and heart disease, can also worsen RP. With some of these diseases, people make antibodies against the nuclei of their own cells, which show up with a special stain. To prevent vasoconstriction of the extremities, be sure to keep your core warm as well. 2014. that is not associated with another connective tissue disease is referred to as primary Sjögren's syndrome. This is called hand-arm vibration syndrome (or vibration white finger). As blood flow returns, the fingers or toes may become bright red (rubor). Gently applied finger splints are used to protect ulcerated areas. These symptoms— caused by the constriction of small blood vessels in the hands or feet—can last for seconds to hours, but most often last around 15 minutes. Spasms of blood vessels happen in response to cold, stress, or emotional upset. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Raynaud’s can occur as a “primary” disease; that is, with no associated disorder. Primary Raynaud’s phenomenon (or Raynaud’s disease, or just Raynaud’s) is the most common form of Raynaud’s phenomenon. Also, avoid too-small rings, snug shoes, tight watches, and anything that constricts circulation to your hands and feet. Raynaud’s phenomenon is a disease that affects your blood vessels. New SRUK research reveals millions of UK adults are 'woefully unaware' of Raynaud's Our new research reveals that nearly half of UK adults don’t know any of the signs of Raynaud’s disease despite it being as common as hay fever and affecting one-in-six people. Thyroid function tests may also be done. Most people affected by Raynaud's phenomenon do very well in response to simple measures, with or without medications. The fingers then take on a bluish appearance (cyanosis) as the tissues are deprived of oxygen and nutrients. This occurs when the blood vessels in … An accurate diagnosis of Raynaud's syndrome is important both in controlling the symptoms and preventing complications. Researchers have reported finding a substantial genetic (inherited) contribution both to the symptoms of RP and to the associated blood-vessel changes of patients with Raynaud's phenomenon. Raynaud's disease (or Raynaud's Syndrome) is a rare disorder of the blood vessels, usually in the fingers and toes. Stress management is important for anyone, but much more so for those who have Raynaud's syndrome, as emotions can lead to attacks. Prevention measures are important in primary and secondary RP regardless of the severity. Updated July 2019. Topical nitroglycerin (ointment, paste, gel, or patches) may be helpful for those who hesitate to take medication every day. If you live in a colder climate, warming your car before leaving home can reduce your exposure, and it may pay to invest in a remote car starter. Raynaud’s phenomenon can occur as a result of using vibrating machinery, for example pneumatic drills, hammer drills, hedge cutters and other power tools. Hand and Foot Pain: Causes and Treatments, Living With Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hands, Try a Natural Approach to Raynaud's Phenomenon, Everything to Know About How Psoriatic Arthritis Affects the Feet, Everything to Know About Pediatric Scleroderma, Scleroderma: A Chronic Connective Tissue Disease, Dorsalis Pedis Artery: Anatomy, Function, and Significance, An Overview of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD), A Look at the Different Types of Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis), Immune System Disorders: Types and Triggers, Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (sed rate), International Consensus Criteria for the Diagnosis of Raynaud's Phenomenon, Evidence-Based Management of Raynaud's Phenomenon, Drug-induced Raynaud's phenomenon: beyond β-adrenoceptor blockers, Treatment Of Raynaud Phenomenon: Initial Management, Calcium Channel Blockers for Primary and Secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon, Use of Nitroglycerine Ointment to Treat Primary and Secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon: A Systematic Literature Review, To compare the efficacy and safety of nifedipine sustained release with Ginkgo biloba extract to treat patients with primary Raynaudâs phenomenon in South Korea; Korean Raynaud study (KOARA study).
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