Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes Raynaud's phenomenon?

In many cases, there is no underlying cause for Raynaud's phenomenon; rather, it is thought to be caused by an exaggerated response of the blood vessels to cold temperatures or stress. In some cases, it can occur due to underlying medical conditions, exposure to certain medications and chemicals, or injury.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon is a disorder in which blood vessels suddenly narrow, temporarily cutting off blood supply to the fingers or other extremities, such as the toes, lips, nose, tongue, ears and nipples.

What are the symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon?

Most commonly the affected areas, such as the fingers, change color to white and then to blue/purple and finally to red as blood flow returns. Numbness, tingling, pins and needles, pain and discomfort can also occur as blood flow returns.

Who gets Raynaud's phenomenon?

Anyone can get Raynaud's phenomenon, although it most commonly develops in the late teens or 20s. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with the condition.

How is Raynaud's phenomenon diagnosed?

There is no single test for Raynaud's phenomenon. A doctor will examine affected areas and ask about your symptoms in order to diagnose it. Further tests may be recommended if there is concern that an underlying medical condition may be causing the …

How is Raynaud's phenomenon treated?

In most cases, Raynaud's phenomenon is treated by learning about your personal triggers for an attack and avoiding them. Gently warming an affected area during an attack can help to restore blood flow. Rarely, further treatments such as medications or …

Can Raynaud's phenomenon be cured?

Raynaud's phenomenon cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed and attacks can be limited by avoiding known triggers.

Will Raynaud's phenomenon clear on its own?

For some people, Raynaud's phenomenon will become less of a problem over time. Women may find that it improves at menopause. If Raynaud's phenomenon is caused by an underlying medical condition, it is more likely to be severe and require ongoing …

Is Raynaud's phenomenon serious?

Most people who have Raynaud's attacks have the less serious primary form that can be managed well by avoiding triggers. In some cases, the symptoms will improve over time, with women often finding that symptoms noticeably reduce with menopause. However, …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people with psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, nails and joints. In psoriatic arthritis, one or more joints become stiff, swollen and painful. Early treatment makes living with the condition much easier.…
Diseases & conditions

Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells by mistake, causing patches of skin to become dry, scaly and itchy. It’s a long-term condition that tends to flare up and then fade in cycles.…
Diseases & conditions

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the result of an underactive thyroid gland. It leads to an undersupply of hormones that control metabolism in the body. If hormone levels are not within a normal range, this can affect the whole body, causing a wide range of symptoms and health problems.…
Diseases & conditions

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that mainly affects the large intestine, causing inflammation and ulcers that can lead to bleeding. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the part of the bowel affected. Lifestyle measures can also help reduce flare-ups.…
Diseases & conditions

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is diagnosed when the body's immune system responds inappropriately to gluten, a protein found in wheat. This results in the inner surface of the small intestine becoming inflamed. A life-long gluten free diet is the main treatment.…
Diseases & conditions

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. It can cause a distinct rash on the face, tiredness and swollen lymph glands. With lifestyle changes and medications, most symptoms can be managed.…

About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Votes: 991 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Psoriatic arthritis

×

Content goes in here.