Raynaud’s Phenomenon Definition
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition that causes several areas of the body such as the fingers and toes to feel numb or dead. This syndrome also causes sufferers to experience a sensation of coldness or chills that is quite disturbing. The exact cause of this disorder is still unknown, but problems with the arteries are thought to be one of the triggers.
In general, this syndrome occurs due to reduced blood flow to certain parts of the body due to narrowing of the arteries. However, Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common condition and rarely triggers bad complications. People who are feeling anxious, stressed, or in a cold room are at high risk of experiencing it.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon Symptoms
Spasms in the small arteries in the fingers and toes occur quickly and are most often triggered by cold. These symptoms can last for a few minutes or hours. In addition, the fingers and toes affected by Raynaud’s phenomenon can turn white and are usually mottled. At the end of the attack, the affected areas appear pinker than usual or bluish. The fingers and toes can experience numbness, tingling, and a feeling of pins and needles or burning.
Causes of Raynaud’s Phenomenon
The exact cause of Raynaud’s phenomenon is still unknown. However, it is thought that the cause of this phenomenon is that the blood vessels in the toes and fingers overreact to cold temperatures or stress. This condition is called primary Raynaud’s. In addition, there is another type called secondary Raynaud’s syndrome.
When exposed to cold or stress, the small blood vessels that supply blood to the skin can narrow or vasospasm, reducing blood flow to the area. Over time, these small blood vessels can thicken, further restricting blood flow.
Cold conditions that can cause this phenomenon, such as putting your hands in cold water, taking items from the freezer, or being in cold weather. In some people, emotional stress can also cause Raynaud’s attacks.
Meanwhile, secondary Raynaud’s syndrome can be caused by several factors, including:
- Scleroderma.
- Lupus.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Dermatomyositis.
- Polymyositis.
Risk Factors for Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Women are at higher risk of developing Raynaud’s phenomenon than men. In addition, Raynaud’s disease is also most common in the 15–30 age group. People who have primary Raynaud’s, live in cold climates, and have a family history of the disease are also at high risk of developing Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Although not dangerous, this condition may interfere with daily activities and make you uncomfortable. The cold sensation that appears can make the skin pale or bluish. Symptoms can occur in several parts of the body, especially the feet, fingers, ears, nose, and lips.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be established through anamnesis, physical examination, and laboratory examination. In anamnesis, complaints can be found in the fingers, such as tingling, numbness, or even pain when cold or a change in the color of the fingers to white or blue after exposure to cold.
Complications
Side effects or complications that can occur if Raynaud’s phenomenon is not treated include tissue damage, ulcers, gangrene, and changes in the shape of the fingers.
Treatment
Treatment aims to reduce the frequency of attacks, prevent tissue damage, and treat the underlying medical causes of secondary Raynaud’s. People with Raynaud’s phenomenon can take a class of drugs that function to enlarge blood vessels. So that blood circulation can return to normal.
In some cases, neurosurgical procedures are sometimes needed if it is caused by a nerve disorder.
Prevention
The following methods can be used to prevent Raynaud’s phenomenon attacks, including:
- Use gloves when taking something from the freezer.
- Adjust the air conditioning temperature so that it is not too cold.
- Wear clothing and accessories, such as hats, scarves, gloves, socks, jackets, earmuffs, and masks to keep your body warm.
- Warming up the vehicle during winter.
