One
of the most peculiar medical conditions known to man is Raynaud's
Phenomenon. A disease of the small blood vessels, Raynaud's Phenomenon,
is characterized by spasms of these blood vessels limiting blood flow
to our fingers and toes.
What Causes Raynaud's Phenomenon?
No one knows for sure, but researchers believe it has to do with our
body's reaction (or overreaction) to cold. To conserve heat, when
our fingers or toes touch something cold, the blood vessels in our
extremities constrict, allowing heat to stay near our body's vital
organs. This may cause arteries in our toes and fingers to go into
spasm and collapse, leading to a reduced blood supply, resulting in
decreased oxygen to these areas.
What Are The Symptoms of Raynaud's Phenomenon?
Fingers, toes, and ears may turn white due to a decreased blood flow,
and then turn blue due to little oxygen. Once the spasm occurs, the
patient may have tingling and swelling of the extremities. After the
spasm attack is over (may last from minutes to hours), the area turns
red and pink, indicating that the blood flow to those areas is now
back to normal.
Who Gets Raynaud's Phenomenon?
It is commonly seen in women between the age group of 20 to 50 years.
It is also more prevalent in people who live in colder climates.
What Is The Difference Between Primary And
Secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon?
Primary Raynaud's Phenomenon is more common and it indicates that
the person has no underlying or associated disease. Secondary is usually
a more serious disorder and is usually associated with connective
tissue diseases such as lupus and scleroderma. These diseases are
characteristic of reduced blood flow.
There are certain medications that can lead to Raynaud's Phenomenon.
Ergotamine medications used for migraines, and beta-blockers used
for hypertension have been found to cause secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon.
Narcotics and cold preparations have also been linked. Trauma can
also cause the phenomenon, such as frostbite and surgery, as well
as repetitive activities, as in playing the piano or using vibrating
machinery. Tobacco smoking is definitely associated with Raynaud's
Phenomenon.
How Is Raynaud's Phenomenon Diagnosed And
Treated?
Your doctor will obtain a complete history and physical to determine
if you have Raynaud's Phenomenon. Usually a patient's description
of the problem clues the physician that Raynaud's Phenomenon may be
occurring. If it does appear that is the case, lab testing to assess
other underlying conditions will take place, to rule out secondary
Raynaud's Phenomenon.
Treatment for secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon involves treating the
underlying condition. Medications that dilate blood vessels, such
as calcium channel blockers and alpha-blockers, are often effective
in treating the phenomenon. Alternative treatments such as bio-feedback
training may be effective for some people.
What Can I Do To Prevent Attacks Of Raynaud's
Phenomenon?
The most important thing to do is to avoid cold exposure to your fingers,
toes, and face. Wearing gloves, warm socks, and boots are essential.
When indoors, use oven mitts or pot holders when removing food from
the refrigerator or freezer. If you smoke, get help to quit smoking.
Avoid situations in which cuts and bruises may occur. Finally, stress
reduction techniques and exercises are essential in better coping
with Raynaud's Phenomenon.
Reference:
Questions and Answers about Raynaud's Phenomenon. National
Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. 1997.
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