Raynaud's Disease Information

BASICS

Raynaud's syndrome is a circulatory disorder of blood vessels of the extremities. Constriction of those vessels is a normal physiological response to low temperatures, helping the body to conserve heat. In Raynaud's syndrome nerve receptors in the extremities are overly sensitive to stimulation. Even a slight temperature drop perhaps a faint chill produced by opening a refrigerator door will cause a spasmodic closing of the small arteries in the fingers (and sometimes in toes). Typically fingers turn white, and then blue and finally red, indicating a progression from total blood deprivation to limited blood flow, to sudden infusion of oxygenated blood as blood vessels suddenly dilate. This can take several minutes or many hours, and can be extremely painful. It may also affect the ears and nose. For most sufferers, Raynaud's syndrome is a mild but maddening condition. Ordinarily, its most serious consequence is the loss of sensitivity in the affected extremity. Very rarely, a severe case results in tissue death and gangrene.

SYMPTOMS

Sudden coldness, numbness or prickly pins-and-needles sensation in the fingers, and possibly toes, when exposed to even a mild drop in temperature — as when walking into an air-conditioned room, for instance. Dramatic color changes in the fingers: When first exposed to cold, fingers turn white, then blue; when re warmed, they quickly turn red and may throb uncomfortably.

PREVENTION

Prevention of Raynaud's disease can be done through these guidelines: Devise ways to stay warm in your own home or office. Always carry a sweater.

Use insulated glasses. Keep fingers and toes dry with talcum powder. Wear socks and mittens to bed. When going outdoors,wear loose layers of blended fabrics;shoes made of breathable materials;a hat and,perhaps, earmuffs;and mittens rather than gloves.If you plan to be outside for several hours, try chemical "heaters"in your socks and mittens. Women with Raynaud's disease should not use birth control pills.Avoid nicotine and caffeine Treat finger or toe infections without delay.

CAUSES

The underlying causes of Raynaud's disease are unknown. It afflicts women disproportionately while men account for only about 1 case in 5. Though not an inherited condition, it frequently affects more than one family member. Raynaud's phenomenon has many causes, including such connective-tissue diseases as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Exposure to certain chemicals and drugs, such as beta-adrenergic blockers (used to treat high blood pressure) or ergotamine (used to treat migraine headaches) and use of vibrating machinery may also trigger this condition. Stress and smoking are also believed to be contributing factors.

DIAGNOSES

A careful clinical history, physical examination and tests, such as capillary microscopy, enable the doctor to diagnose whether the patient has primary Raynaud's (not associated with any other condition) or if it is secondary to another underlying disease, such as scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis. Blood tests will help identify an underlying connective tissue disorder while x-rays, along with doppler ultrasound studies, may reveal arterial abnormalities. If autoantibodies are present in the blood, the patient should be referred to a consultant. It is essential that people with significant Raynaud's be screened for a possible underlying condition.

NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS PRIMARY NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS

HERBS None

VITAMINS Inositol Heaxaniacinate

QUASI VITAMINS None

AMINO ACIDS Carnitine

MINERALS None

SECONDARY NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS

HERBS

Evening Primrose Oil Ginkgo Biloba Garlic

VITAMINS None

QUASI VITAMINS None

MINERALS Magnesium

DIETARY GUIDELINES

Take plenty of fluids. Include all kinds of fruits and vegetables in your diet.

HOMECARE SUGGESTIONS

Stop smoking. Avoid exposure to cold in any form. Wear mittens or gloves outdoors and also when handling ice or frozen food. Avoid chilling, which may happen following any active recreational sport. Wear comfortable, roomy shoes and wool socks. When outside, always wear shoes.

MIND/BODY CONSIDERATIONS

Meditation and prayer help in treatment of nerve disorder by helping you relax.