Get the Facts about Raynaud’s

October is Raynaud’s Awareness Month, and at NY Foot Health, we want to help our patients better understand this oftentimes puzzling condition. Below are some facts about Raynaud’s:

FACT: Raynaud’s is more than frequently having cold feet and cold hands. It’s an actual medical condition that causes vasospasms in the blood vessels that lead to your extremities which temporarily reduce the blood flow to your feet, hands, and nose.

FACT: Symptoms of Raynaud’s include color changes in the skin (usually to blue or white), excessive sensitivity to cold in the feet, hands, and nose, and uncomfortable sensations such as pain, throbbing, burning, and numbness in the extremities. People with Raynaud’s may find it painful to hold a cold drink or reach into a freezer.

FACT: A Raynaud’s attack can last anywhere from several minutes to several hours.

FACT: An attack of Raynaud’s can be triggered by stress.

FACT: There are two types of Raynaud’s: Primary and Secondary. With primary Raynaud’s, the symptoms occur on their own. In patients with secondary Raynaud’s, the condition is associated with other autoimmune diseases such as Lupus or Rheumatoid arthritis.

FACT: Doctors are not completely sure what causes Raynaud’s. It can be triggered by certain medications and some forms of chemotherapy. Patients who have an immediate family member with the condition are at higher risk for developing Raynaud’s. Raynaud’s may also be the result of trauma or injury to the arteries, excessive smoking, or circulatory problems.

FACT: There is no cure for Raynaud’s. However, there are medications that can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Preventive measures include wearing extra layers on feet and hands, avoiding extremely cold temperatures, finding better ways to cope with stress, and not smoking. When a Raynaud’s attack occurs, get to a warmer setting as quickly as possible. Running hands and feet under warm (not hot) water and swinging your arms in a windmill motion will help get the blood flowing.

FACT: If you think you have Raynaud’s, talk to your podiatrist. (If you need to find a podiatrist in your area, use our online directory. In severe cases Raynaud’s can cause ulcerations on the feet that should be treated promptly.

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