Raynaud’s Phenomenon

Raynaud’s phenomenon is basically a disorder that affects the blood vessels in the fingers, ears, toes and nose. This disorder is distinguished by episodic attacks, called as vasospastic attacks that lead to the blood vessels in the digits to get constricted.

Though the estimates vary, recent investigations show that Raynaud’s phenomenon may affect 5-10 percent of the general population in US. Women are more likely to have the disorder as compared to men. It appears to be more common in people who reside in colder climates. However, people with the disorder who reside in milder climates might have more attacks during colder weather.

Causes of Raynaud’s phenomenon

The causes of primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon are not yet known. Abnormal nerve control of the blood vessel diameter as well as nerve sensitivity to cold exposure has been found out to be the contributing factors.

The characteristic changes in color of the digits are in part associated with initial blood vessel narrowing because of spasm of the tiny muscles in the wall of the vessels, pursued by sudden opening, as explained above. The small arteries of the digits can possess microscopic thickness of their inner lining, which also causes abnormal constricting of the blood vessels.

Symptoms and signs of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon depend on the severity, duration and frequency of the blood vessel spasm. Majority of patients with mild disease only find skin discoloration on exposure to cold. They may also suffer through numbness and mild tingling of the involved digits which will appear after the color gets back to normal. When the spasms of blood-vessel turns out to be more sustained, the sensory nerves become annoyed due to lack of oxygen and can lead to pain in the involved digits.

Occasionally, poor supply of oxygen to the tissue can lead to the tips of the digits to ulcerate. Less common areas of the body which can be affected by Raynaud’s phenomenon consist of the nose, tongue and ears. While these areas hardly ever develop ulcers and they can be related to a sensation of pain and numbness. Patients with secondary RP can also experience symptoms associated with their underlying disease.

Treatment for Raynaud’s syndrome

The main aim of the treatment is to reduce the severity and number of attacks and to prevent tissue damage and loss in the toes and fingers. Majority of doctors are traditional in treating patients who have primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon: that is, they suggest self-help measures and non-drug treatment first.

Doctors may prescribe medications for some patients, generally those with secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. Moreover, patients are treated for any underlying condition or disease which leads to secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon.