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In which condition would you see Raynaud phenomenon?
Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs in about 85 to 95 percent of patients with scleroderma and is present in about one-third of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). Raynaud’s also can occur in patients who have other connective tissue diseases, including Sjögren’s syndrome, dermatomyositis and polymyositis.
What does Raynaud’s look like?
Symptoms of Raynaud’s include fingers that turn pale or white then blue when exposed to cold, or during stress or emotional upset. They then red when the hands are warmed. Managing Raynaud’s includes avoiding cold, dressing warmly, and stopping smoking.
Should I see a rheumatologist for Raynaud’s?
Rheumatologists are the doctors best equipped to diagnose Raynaud’s. When a patient comes in with symptoms, an evaluation will include a complete medical history, physical exam, and blood tests to determine if the Raynaud’s is primary or secondary.
Why is my Raynaud’s getting worse?
Causes of secondary Raynaud’s include: Connective tissue diseases. Most people who have a rare disease that leads to hardening and scarring of the skin (scleroderma) have Raynaud’s. Other diseases that increase the risk of Raynaud’s include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome.
Who would diagnose Raynaud’s disease?
Your primary doctor will likely be able to diagnose Raynaud’s based on your signs and symptoms. In some cases, however, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in disorders of the joints, bones and muscles (rheumatologist).
What triggers raynauds?
Raynaud’s is usually triggered by cold temperatures, anxiety or stress. The condition occurs because your blood vessels go into a temporary spasm, which blocks the flow of blood. This causes the affected area to change colour to white, then blue and then red, as the bloodflow returns.
Is Raynaud’s an autoimmune condition?
Raynaud’s phenomenon is the short-term interruption of blood flow to the extremities, such as the fingers and toes. Raynaud’s phenomenon may be a sign of an underlying autoimmune disorder such as scleroderma or lupus, so it’s important to see your doctor for diagnosis.
What foods to avoid if you have Raynaud’s?
Eat a healthy diet Always try to maintain a balanced, healthy diet and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Some food supplements have helped Raynaud’s sufferers, including evening primrose oil, gingko biloba and fish oils. Certain foods are also believed to help, like ginger, garlic and spicy food.
Will Ana be positive with Raynaud’s?
In a patient presenting with Raynaud phenomenon, a positive ANA test (even in the absence of other symptoms) warrants more frequent follow-up, urinalysis and perhaps referral to a rheumatologist.
Is Raynaud’s disease serious?
In rare cases, Raynaud’s can become severe. If it causes skin sores or gangrene—decay or death of body tissues—you may need antibiotics or surgery to remove the damaged tissue. In very serious cases, it might be necessary to remove the affected toe or finger.
What vitamins are good for Raynaud’s?
These supplements may help:
- Omega-3 fatty acids , found in fish oil, may reduce symptoms in people with primary Raynaud’s, according to one study.
- Evening primrose oil (EPO) .
- Inositol hexaniacinate , a form of vitamin B3 or niacin, may reduce frequency of Raynaud’s attacks.
- Magnesium opens up blood vessels.
Is raynauds a symptom of MS?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with secondary Raynaud’s. Medics think that MS can make blood vessels in your extremities to overreact to the cold, and you may experience Raynaud’s phenomenon. For some people, emotional stress rather than the cold can trigger an attack.
What should you do if you have Raynaud’s disease?
Your doctor might order other tests, such as those that rule out diseases of the arteries, to help pinpoint a condition that can be associated with Raynaud’s. Dressing for the cold in layers and wearing gloves or heavy socks usually are effective in dealing with mild symptoms of Raynaud’s.
What are the different types of Raynaud’s disease?
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a disease that affects your blood vessels. There are two forms of Raynaud’s phenomenon: Primary and secondary. The form of Raynaud’s phenomenon you have affects the symptoms you have.
What happens to your skin when you get Raynaud’s?
When you warm up, your skin may tingle or burn. For many people, especially those with the primary form of Raynaud’s phenomenon, the symptoms are mild. People with the secondary form tend to have more severe symptoms. What causes it? What causes Raynaud’s phenomenon?
How is a blood test used to diagnose Raynaud?
Antinuclear antibodies (blood test): This blood test will help to determine primary from secondary Raynaud phenomenon conditions by assessing the presence of ANAs (antinuclear antibodies), produced by the immune system, in the bloodstream.