RAYNAUD'S DISEASE
Also called: Raynaud's phenomenon
Raynaud's disease is a rare disorder of the blood vessels, usually in the fingers and toes. People with this disorder have attacks that cause the blood vessels to narrow. When this happens, blood can't get to the surface of the skin and the affected areas turn white and blue. When the blood flow returns, the skin turns red and throbs or tingles. In severe cases, loss of blood flow can cause sores or tissue death. Cold weather and stress can trigger attacks. Often the cause of Raynaud's is not known. People in colder climates are more likely to develop Raynaud's than people in warmer areas.
Treatment for Raynaud's may include drugs to keep the blood vessels open. There are also simple things you can do yourself, such as
- Soaking hands in warm water at the first sign of an attack
- Keeping your hands and feet warm in cold weather
