Raynaud's Phenomenon
What is Raynaud's Phenomenon?
Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition in which the blood vessels in one area (usually fingers or toes) convulsively constrict more than normal, a process known as Raynaud's seizure phenomenon.
What is a Raynaud's phenomenon seizure?
The muscles around the small veins in the fingers/toes contract. This causes less blood to reach these areas and the fingers/toes become white and stiff.
Over time, as the skin receives little access to oxygen, the fingers may turn blue or bluish-purple.
Finally, the blood vessels open more than usual and this causes swelling and redness.
The duration of a Raynaud's phenomenon seizure can vary, from a few minutes to several hours.
What can trigger a Raynaud's Phenomenon seizure?
Interaction with cold objects/surroundings without good protection against cold; The body's natural reaction to cold is to restrict blood flow to the extremities to keep core temperature stable.
Strong emotions such as stress.
Use of medicines that may reduce blood flow in the skin, such as beta-blockers.
How common is Raynaud's phenomenon?
About 3-5% of the adult population has some degree of Raynaud's phenomenon.
It usually starts around the age of 15-45.
Over 70% of these people notice the first symptoms before they are 40 years old.
Is Raynaud's phenomenon dangerous?
For the vast majority of people, the answer is no, even if they are experienced as very unpleasant episodes.
However, for a few, the blood supply during the seizures can become so limited that wounds and skin lesions can form.
If any of this sounds familiar, we recommend that you have a chat with your doctor, especially if you are one of those whose seizures result in injuries.
How do people get Raynaud's phenomenon?
In some, there may be a hereditary component.
Working with shock/vibrating tools increases the risk of getting Raynaud's phenomenon.
The majority (80-90%) of Raynaud's phenomena are cases of the primary variety.
Primary Raynauds fenomen
Primary Raynaud's phenomenon has no known underlying diseases, we are still not 100% sure what causes it.
Secondary Raynauds fenomen
Secondary Raynaud's phenomenon is due to one or more underlying diseases, some examples are:
Diseases of blood vessels or connective tissue, such as Systemic sclerosis.
Damage to blood vessels after e.g. amputation, injuries, poisoning, infections or frostbite.
How do you treat Raynaud's phenomenon?
Seizures with Raynaud's phenomenon are usually triggered by sudden temperature changes (e.g., touching something cold) or emotional stress).
The most important thing is to try to avoid what you know can trigger a seizure.
How to prevent Raynaud's phenomenon
The best thing you can do is keep your hands and/or fingers warm, our heating aids are designed to help with this.
Avoid using cigarettes/tobacco as this damages the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the body.
If possible, avoid using medicines that may reduce blood flow in the skin (talk to your doctor about this).
Use moisturizer if you tend to have dry and cracked skin.
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In severe cases, surgical treatment may be appropriate.
Again, if any of this sounds familiar, we recommend talking to your doctor.