Raynaud’s phenomenon is common and doesn’t usually cause any severe problems. You can often treat the symptoms yourself by keeping warm. Sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Check if it’s Raynaud’s Raynaud’s affects your blood circulation. When you’re cold, anxious or stressed, your fingers and toes may change colour. Other symptoms can include:
• pain
• numbness
• pins and needles
• difficulty moving the affected area
• the skin turns white as blood flow is restricted • sometimes the skin turns blue as blood vessels react
• the skin turns red as blood flow returns • some people also find their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected.
The symptoms of Raynaud’s may last from a few minutes to a few hours.
Things you can do yourself
DO –
• keep your home warm
• wear warm clothes during cold weather – especially on your hands and feet • exercise regularly – this helps improve circulation
• try breathing exercises or yoga to help you relax
• eat a healthy, balanced diet
DON’T –
• smoke – improve your circulation by stopping smoking
• drink too much tea, coffee or cola – caffeine and other stimulants can stop you relaxing
See a GP if:
• your symptoms are very bad or getting worse
• Raynaud’s is affecting your daily life
• you only have numbness on one side of your body
• you also have joint pain, skin rashes or muscle weakness
• you’re over 30 and get symptoms of Raynaud’s for the first time
• your child is under 12 and has symptoms of Raynaud’s Treatment from a GP
If your symptoms are very bad or getting worse, your GP may prescribe a medicine called nifedipine to help improve your circulation. Some people need to take nifedipine every day. Others only use it to prevent Raynaud’s – for example, during cold weather. Sometimes your GP will examine you and suggest a blood test.In rare cases, Raynaud’s could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
For more information please visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/raynauds/