Raynaud’s Disease

Introduction
Certain people experience less blood circulation in fingers, nose, ears and toes, this condition is known as Raynaud’s disease (RD). It is classified in two types one is, primary and the other is secondary. The primary raynaud’s disease is mild and there are fewer complications in it as compared to the secondary raynaud’s disease which is more severe and has worse effects. If raynaud’s disease is not cured at primary stage it can develop into secondary raynaud’s disease. Out of 10 people 3 may develop their raynaud’s disease into the raynaud’s syndrome. Its symptoms may vary because of types of conditions. Its consequences can be lost of sensitivity in the affected area. The attack can be of minutes and can be extended to hours. In people suffering from RD gangrene can be easily developed.

Alternative Names
Primary raynaud’s disease is known as idiopathic and secondary raynaud’s disease is known as raynaud’s syndrome.

Causes
The causes of both the RD are more or less same. There is no evidence or proof which can prove that this disease is caused by inheritance. There are other factors contributing to it. The affected area can experience hindrance in blood flow or the blood flow can be stopped, which can be a result of sudden chilling wind or it can be because of opening of the deep freezer too. Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus can be a causing agent. Certain drugs and medicines can also affect in the blood vessels which can result in RD. Factors like age and smoking are also connected with this disease. People who smoke are usually seen to be more affected because the use of tobacco has bad effects on the blood vessels resulting in their thinning and blockage. If the walls of the arteries are abnormal or the viscosity of blood is more than the usual it can also lead to RD many drugs like beta blockers and nicotine can be a cause of raynaud’s disease. Cause of secondary raynaud’s disease is usually the underlying disease. Anxiety and emotional stress is also a suspected cause.

Risk Factors

Smokers
Women are more susceptible than men. In affected patients, 80% are women.

Symptoms & Signs

People suffering from raynaud’s disease are very sensitive to temperature; a sudden temperature decrease can make their hands, nose, ears and toes jammed.
Numbness is noted in fingers.
Color change in fingers and all the affected area is noticed even when going to an air-conditioned room.
The color change of skin is commonly bluish.
In primary disease both sides of the body are equally affected.
In secondary disease asymmetrical symptoms are observed.
When exposed to cold or low temperature they may turn red quickly.

Diagnosis
First step to diagnose any disease is physical examination. Then comes the testing of blood vessels such as microscopy, x-rays, Doppler ultra sound can also be effective in diagnosing the disease correctly. Taking a blood test can also diagnose any under lying cause which requires treatment in order to treat the raynaud’s disease.

Prevention

For people who suffer from raynaud’s disease, clothing plays an important role in prevention against it. Such people should wear thermal fabric to regulate the blood circulation properly in their body.
Women who are suffering from raynaud’s disease should not use birth control pills without the doctor’s recommendation.
Avoid smoking.
Try to be stress free as it can worsen the condition.
Wear socks and gloves, especially before going out.
Chemical heaters can be used too
Always carry a sweater when going out.
Keep yourself dry and warm.

Treatment
There are several ways to treat raynaud’s disease. Alpha blockers and beta stimulants can be used to treat the condition. If the cause is viscosity of the blood then medicines which can help in thinning the blood can be used. Sometimes the way of treatment is surgery only.

Primary Natural Supplements
Vitamins

Inositol heaxaniacinate

Amino Acids

Carnitine

Secondary Natural Supplements
Herbs

Evening Primrose Oil
Ginkgo Biloba
Garlic

Minerals

Magnesium

Dietary Guidelines

Include all sorts of natural, fresh juices in your daily diet.
Eat vegetables and fruits of all kind.

Home Care Suggestions

Quit smoking as soon as possible.
Use woolen socks.
Keep your home environment warm.
Keep you surroundings dry.
Their must be proper ventilation to have some amount of sunlight in the home.
Exposure to sunlight can be of help in this regard.
Avoid working in water for long periods.

Mind/Body Considerations
As we know that this is a nerve disorder, along with the treatment meditation is also important.


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