Raynaud's
Overview
Raynaud's phenomenon is where your blood stops flowing properly to your fingers and toes. It's common and does not usually cause severe problems. You can often treat the symptoms yourself by keeping warm. Sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Symptoms
Raynaud's affects your blood circulation. When you're cold, anxious or stressed, your fingers and toes may change colour. Other symptoms can include: painnumbnesspins and needles Some people also find that their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected. The symptoms of Raynaud's may last from a few minutes to a few hours. Raynaud's is sometimes caused by another health condition, taking certain medicines, or working with vibrating tools for a long time.
Causes
Blood vessels narrow in cold/stress. Primary (common) or Secondary (Scleroderma/Lupus).
Treatment
If you have Raynaud's and your symptoms are very bad or getting worse, a GP may prescribe a medicine to help improve your circulation. For example, you may be offerednifedipine, which is used to treat high blood pressure. Some people need to take this medicine every day. Others only use it to prevent Raynaud's, for example, during cold weather. A GP may arrange tests if they think Raynaud's could be a sign of a more serious condition, such asrheumatoid arthritisorlupus.
Prevention
Avoid cold/sudden temperature changes; Stop smoking; Manage stress.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: symptoms affect daily life; only on one side; joint pain.