![]() ![]() However, episodes can be prevented by avoiding situations that trigger them. There is no known way to prevent the development of Raynaud’s disease and there is no known cure for the condition. Blood tests may be done to help determine whether the condition is primary or secondary. You may be given a cold challenge test, which is done to see the colour changes in the fingers after your hands are exposed to cold.Īdults who start to develop Raynaud’s disease after about age 35 years may be tested for an underlying disease. The tiny blood vessels in the skin at the base of your fingernails may be examined for deformities using a magnifier or microscope. The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history, and look at the problem areas. However, if symptoms worsen or a person gets sores or infections on affected fingers and toes, they should see a doctor. Diagnosisįor many people living with Raynaud’s disease is more of an inconvenience than a problem. They may also feel warm and may throb painfully.Ī general feeling of tightness in the affected area may also be experienced during an episode. The arteries dilate again, increasing blood flow and causing the affected fingers and toes to flush bright red.They may also feel cold, numb and tingly. Lack of oxygen causes the affected fingers and toes to become blue in colour.The affected fingers and toes become pale due to lack of blood. Small arteries become narrow (constrict), reducing the flow of blood through them.There are three distinct phases to an episode of Raynaud’s disease: In rare cases the prolonged lack of oxygen can cause cracked skin or chilblains, or small ulcers at the tips of the fingers. ![]() In more severe cases the lack of oxygen due to the reduced blood supply can irritate nerves, causing pain, and can damage the tissues beneath the skin. In mild cases, only skin discolouration or minor tingling may be experienced. An episode tends to come on very quickly and can last for minutes or a number of hours. Most episodes occur in response to exposure to cold, sudden changes in temperature or emotional stress. Raynaud’s disease occurs in “episodes”, where symptoms are present for a period of time, and then resolve. Secondary Raynaud's disease can develop at any age.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |