Raynaud’s is a disorder that affects the arteries by restricting blood flow to toes and, most commonly, fingers. There are two types of Raynaud’s: primary and secondary.
Primary Raynaud’s (also called Raynaud’s disease) comes from an unknown origin and tends to be less severe than secondary Raynaud’s. Secondary Raynaud’s is sparked by another unknown illness, condition, or something else, often called Raynaud’s phenomenon. Causes of secondary Raynaud’s include:
- Diseases/conditions that directly harm the arteries or nerves in the hands or feet
- Damages to the arteries in the hands and feet caused by repetitive actions
- Injuries to the hands and feet
- Chemical exposures
- Medicines that minimize blood pressure and narrow arteries
Raynaud’s attacks can be triggered by either cold temperatures or stress, marked by little- to no blood flow to the extremities. As flood flow diminishes, the skin might turn white and then blue for a short time. Once blood flow returns, the fingers (or toes) might turn red, throb, tingle, burn, or go numb.
People who have Raynaud’s typically do not experience long-term tissue damage or disability, though they can form skin sores or gangrene from extended attacks.
Roughly five percent of the American population experiences Raynaud’s, and for most, it’s a bother rather than a severe illness. Researchers continue to explore Raynaud’s.
Treatments for Raynaud’s include lifestyle changes, medicines, and in rare cases, surgery. Those with Raynaud’s can take preventative measures such as wearing a hat, mittens (not gloves), scarf, coat, and warm socks during cold weather. Warming up your surroundings before entering (warming up the car, for example) can help ease Raynaud’s. Avoiding stressful situations can also help reduce Raynaud’s symptoms. Certain medicines can be prescribed to Raynaud’s patients to minimize attacks as well.
Do you think you might suffer from Raynaud’s? Contact the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist to schedule an appointment today.
Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com