What is Raynaud's Disease?

Raynaud's disease is a rare condition in which discoloration occur in the extremities such as fingers, toes, ears and nose because of cold temperature and emotional stress. This discoloration occurs because of low blood flow. If such condition arises lonely then it is called as Raynaud's disease and if it occurs along with other diseases then it is called as secondary Raynaud phenomenon. French physician Maurice Raynaud first described this disease hence name is given Raynaud's Disease. Women and people living in cold environment have more chances of having Raynaud's disease.

Why Raynaud's Disease caused?

Cold temperatures and stress mainly responsible for Raynaud's disease. But because of other diseases like scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, diseases of the arteries etc. are give rise to secondary Raynaud's disease.

What is Symptoms of Raynaud's Disease?

• Series of color changes in the extremities areas commonly affect fingers and toes but sometimes lip, ears and nose also affected by Raynaud's disease.
  
• First affected area turns white then it changes to blue and when area is warmed color changes to red.
  
• Numbness, throb, swelling and tingling may also occur.

How is Raynaud's Disease Diagnosed?

If frequently 2-3 color change occur in both hands or feet during stress and cold temperature for at least two years then there is high chances of Raynaud's disease. Additional test such as Antinuclear antibody blood test, examining the nailfold capillaries which should be in a normal pattern is carried out for diagnosis of Raynaud's disease.

Is Raynaud's Disease Treatable?

1. In primary Raynaud's disease doctors may prescribe medicines which helps in widening of blood vessels.
2. Vasodilators, nifedipine or diltiazem are popular medicines for Raynaud's disease.
   
3. Biofeedback is applied for getting control over involuntary body functions.
   
4. In rare cases sympathectomy surgery is carried out to treat Raynaud's disease.
   
5. Balloon angioplasty or laser surgery is tried to cure diseases if above mentioned treatment fails.

Is Raynaud's Disease Preventable?

• Prefer wearing scarf, socks and gloves in the extremities areas of body such as hand, feet, nose etc.
  
• Avoid cold temperature and stress as much as you can.
  
• Stay away from smoking and taking beverages such as decongestants and caffeinated which can narrow blood vessels.