What is Raynaud’s syndrome?
Raynaud’s syndrome is the decrease in blood flow to your fingers or toes likely due to cold or stress. While it’s most seen in fingers and toes, it can also be found in other parts of the body such as your nose and ears. Raynaud’s can be broken into two categories, primary and secondary.
- Primary Raynaud’s: Not associated with any other condition. Commonly found in women under 30.
- Secondary Raynaud’s: This condition comes secondary to other autoimmune or tissues diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleroderma.
What causes Raynaud’s?
Raynaud’s occurs when blood vessels have spasms that constrict blood flow. These narrowed arteries are typically brought on by cold or stress. There is not a known cause for why these arteries narrow when exposed to cold or stress, but some research shows that it could be due to blood disorders.
What are the symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome?
As the blood flow slows down to your fingers or toes (or whatever part of your body is affected), it causes the pigment to wash away and turn the joints white. It’s possible they could also turn blue due to lack of oxygen. Blood flow will return to the joint after warming up. The amount of time it takes for blood flow to return will vary. Additional symptoms that be present include:
- Joints that are cold to the touch
- Numbness
- Tingly joints
How is Raynaud's syndrome diagnosed?
Since there are two types of Raynaud’s (primary and secondary), a blood test may be ordered to help determine if there are any underlying conditions that could be causing your Raynaud’s. Additionally, a rheumatologist may conduct a nailfold capillaroscopy test by using a microscope to view the blood vessels around your fingernail.
How is Raynaud's treated?
If your Raynaud’s is triggered by cold, the first treatment option you will likely be given is to wear gloves, thick socks and warm clothes (keep whatever body part that’s affected extra warm). Other treatment options may include finding ways to reduce stress. If stress or cold are not the cause of your Raynaud’s, medication may be recommended.
If you are suffering from Raynaud’s syndrome, call 515.875.9790 to schedule an appointment with a board-certified Rheumatologist.