Raynaud's Disease

Raynaud's disease affects the blood vessels of the fingers, toes, and occasionally the lips, nose and ears. It is most commonly seen in the fingers. A narrowing of the blood vessels called vasospasm can cause a decreased blood flow to the area. During this episode the affected area may become white and then blue in color. It may feel numb or throb. When Raynaud's episodes occur frequently or last for long periods of time, the fingers or affected area can develop gangrene.

Signs & Symptoms

Episodic cold, white, gray, or blue color changes of the affected area when exposed to cold temperatures or stress

Throbbing, numbness, tingling of area when the color returns

Diagnosis

Physician's Examination A health care provider investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease. It generally follows the taking of the medical history - an account of the symptoms as experienced by the patient. Together with the medical history, the physical examination aids in determining the correct diagnosis and devising the treatment plan. This data then becomes part of the medical record.

Bloodwork A laboratory analysis performed on a blood sample that is usually extracted from a vein in the arm using a needle, or via fingerprick.

Nailfold Capillaroscopy A drop of oil is put on the nailfolds and then looked at under a magnifying glass to see whether there are changes in the capillaries which are indicative of connective tissue disease. Capillaroscopy is the most reliable way to distinguish between primary and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon through identification of an early pattern of systemic sclerosis.

Cold Stimulation Test A non-invasive test that involves taping a heat sensor to your hands, then submerging them in an ice-water bath to measure how long it takes to return to normal temperature.

Treatment

Medication

Biofeedback Therapy

Nerve surgery - Sympathectomy

Chemical Injection

Amputation