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Raynaud' s Phenomenon
Medical Questions » Raynaud' s Phenomenon
| Name: Raynaud' s Phenomenon |
| Also known as: |
| Distressing spasm of small arteries, almost invariably affecting women. |
Causes of Raynaud' s Phenomenon
Spasm of small arteries which restricts blood flow. Attacks usually triggered by cold conditions, such as entering an air-conditioned building or a cold climate. Other triggers may be hormonal changes, stress and anxiety, exercise and some foods. Raynaud' s disease is the most common cause, but in most cases no specific cause can be found. |
Symptoms of Raynaud' s Phenomenon
Hands go white then blue, swell and become very painful episodically. Usually starts in the teenage years or early twenties, may remain lifelong, and affects one in every five women. Often eases after the menopause. |
Tests for Raynaud' s Phenomenon
None diagnostic. |
Treatment for Raynaud' s Phenomenon
Keep hands warm. Alcohol in low doses may be useful. A wide range of tablets and ointments can be used to dilate the tiny arteries in the fingers. As a last resort, operations to cut the nerves that cause the artery spasm can be performed.
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Complications of Raynaud' s Phenomenon of its treatment
Often associated with rheumatoid arthritis, and CREST syndrome and scleroderma are rare diseases that may be a cause. |
Likely Outcome of Raynaud' s Phenomenon
Persistent, but control reasonable with appropriate treatment. Surgery may be curative. |
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