Raynaud's Phenomenon
What is it?
Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs when the blood vessels that feed your fingers and toes constrict in reaction to cold or emotional stress (this event is called a vasospastic attack). Diverting blood flow away from the extremities to keep the body’s core warm is a normal reaction to extreme cold. However, in Raynaud’s phenomenon, the body reduces blood flow to the fingers and toes under relatively minor cold stress, such as holding a glass of ice water or being in an air-conditioned room. The same reaction can be triggered by emotional strain or excitement.
Raynaud’s phenomenon can occur on its own (called primary disease) or it can occur in the presence of another underlying disorder (called secondary disease), usually a connective tissue disease, such as lupus or scleroderma. Most people with Raynaud’s have the milder, primary form. Secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon is not as common as the primary form, but it is often more complex and severe.
Although there is no cure for Raynaud’s phenomenon, it can be controlled and attacks can oftentimes be avoided.
