Raynaud's phenomenon (2024)

FAQs

What makes Raynaud's flare up? ›

An attack usually happens from exposure to cold or emotional stress. There are two types of Raynaud's phenomenon—primary and secondary. The primary form has no known cause, but the secondary form is related to another health issue, especially autoimmune diseases like lupus or scleroderma.

For most people with Raynaud's phenomenon, avoiding getting cold prevents attacks and keeps symptoms under control. But if this is not enough, medications and, in some cases, surgical procedures can help. Secondary Raynaud's phenomenon is more likely to be serious and to need more aggressive therapy.

Raynaud's is usually triggered by cold temperatures, anxiety or stress. The condition occurs because your blood vessels go into a temporary spasm, which blocks the flow of blood. This causes the affected area to change colour to white, then blue and then red, as the bloodflow returns.

What is the life expectancy of someone with Raynaud's disease? The life expectancy of someone with Raynaud's disease isn't significantly affected by the condition itself. However, complications and underlying conditions associated with severe Raynaud's disease can have an impact.

Abnormalities of magnesium metabolism have been reported in people with Raynaud's disease. Magnesium deficiency results in blood-vessel spasm, which may be helped with supplementation. More. Abnormalities of magnesium metabolism have been reported in people with Raynaud's disease.

Nutrition. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and get regular exercise. These supplements may help: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, may reduce symptoms in people with primary Raynaud's, according to one study.

Most people with Raynaud's phenomenon will always have the condition, although it can improve with time. If there's an underlying cause of the condition, then it's sometimes possible to remove or treat this. For example, Raynaud's caused by taking beta blockers can be 'cured' by stopping this medication.

Raynaud's disease: Occurs on its own and isn't connected with another disease or condition. This is also called primary Raynaud's syndrome. Raynaud's phenomenon: Occurs due to an underlying condition, medication or lifestyle factor. This is also called secondary Raynaud's syndrome.

Does caffeine make Raynaud's worse? ›

Caffeine (found in things like soda, coffee, and chocolate) and nicotine (cigarettes) can make a Raynaud's attack worse because they constrict blood vessels. So do some common medications like decongestants and ADHD medications — your child's doctor will help you sort out which ones to avoid.

In this case, if your GP can't help, a rheumatologist or dermatologist may be able to deal with your condition. There's no known link between Raynaud's and heart disease. However, anyone who already suffers from Raynaud's and is then diagnosed with heart disease should make sure that their doctor is aware of it.

People who experience Raynaud's should avoid medicines which reduce blood flow to the peripheries, such as: Serotonin receptor agonists, e.g triptans used to treat migraines. Ergots (Claviceps fungi derivatives), e.g. ergotamine used to treat migraines. Clonidine (which decreases cardiac output)

Although it is typically a lifelong condition, it frequently does not get worse. In cases in which the vasospasm is severe, the affected areas may be prone to open sores that are slow to heal.

Over time, these small arteries can thicken slightly and limit blood flow even more. Cold temperatures are the most likely cause of an attack. Examples are putting hands in cold water, taking something from a freezer or being in cold air. For some people, emotional stress can trigger an episode.

Avoid caffeine which can make things worse, by constricting your blood vessels. Add in omega 3s to improve your circulation – plenty of oily fish, walnuts, chia and flaxseeds and a quality fish oil supplement.

Raynaud's phenomenon is the short-term interruption of blood flow to the extremities, such as the fingers and toes. Raynaud's phenomenon may be a sign of an underlying autoimmune disorder such as scleroderma or lupus, so it's important to see your doctor for diagnosis.