Raynaud's Phenomenon: What is it?  If you’re not personally familiar with the pain and frustration caused by Raynaud's Syndrome, you most likely know someone who is living with this debilitating phenomenon. Raynaud’s is certainly one of the most peculiar of medical conditions afflicting millions of people worldwide. Characterized by spasms of the blood vessels in the hands and or feet known as “vasospasm”, sharp and persistent contraction of the “arterioles” restrict blood flow to the extremities of the body.   RP attacks can also afflict some people’s ears, nose and tongue. They are classically described as being accompanied by color change of the skin (white, blue, and then red) as shown in Diagram A. Although the exact cause of Raynaud’s phenomenon is not yet understood, medical researchers believe it mostly has to do with our body's reaction or overreaction to cold temperatures.

Diagram A (Click to enlarge) opens new window

What causes Raynaud's Syndrome?

Exposure to cold is the main trigger for a Raynaud’s attack, although stress, tobacco and caffeine can also be contributing factors in vasospasm attacks.

Raynaud’s Phenomenon appears to be triggered by the body’s exaggerated response to protecting and maintaining vital organ temperatures. Meaning, this hypersensitive reaction to cold may have developed from the body’s own natural defense mechanism.

Blood flow studies have shown that during a Raynaud's attack there is little or no blood circulation in the small capillaries (arterioles) vessels of the hands or feet. This phenomenon leads to a reduced blood supply of oxygen enriched nutrients that are needed to repair damaged cells.

Also, cold temperatures are more likely to provoke an attack when the individual is physically or emotionally stressed. For some persons, exposure to cold is not even necessary; stress alone causes vessels to narrow and constrict. (See Diagram B)

Tobacco and caffeine consumption can also play a roll in prompting Raynaud’s episodes.

What are symptoms of Raynaud's?

The affected areas turn white from the lack of circulation, then blue and cold, and finally numb. When the attack subsides, the affected parts may turn red and may throb, tingle or swell.

The attacks are classically described as being accompanied by color change of the skin (white, blue, or red).

People suffering from Raynaud's can also have other diseases such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, and forms of vascular irritation and obstruction.

Millions of people in the United States live with the condition of Raynaud's phenomenon. The condition is more common in women than in men. In its mild form, the symptoms can be frightening and a nuisance. In its severe form, the symptoms can be painful and disabling. When accompanied or complicated by other diseases, the symptoms can become crippling, and may eventually lead to ulceration, gangrene and, in severe cases, amputation.

What to do if you have Raynaud's

Protect yourself from the cold. If you smoke consider giving it up. Try cutting back on your daily intake of caffeine beverages, such as coffee. Make sure to drink at least the recommended daily amounts of fresh water.

If you have an attack of Raynaud's, remain calm and take the following steps to gently warm your fingers and toes:

Move to a warmer room or a warmer area of the room.

Wiggle your fingers and toes.

Move about to warm in a relaxed manner to effectively speed up your circulation

Gently soak your hands or feet in warm soothing water. Make sure it’s not too HOT!

Take Preventative Measures Now!

Thermoflow’s gloves and socks offer effective relief from the symptoms of Raynaud’s.

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