Introduction
Raynaud's phenomenon is common and does not usually cause 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
Some people also find that their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected.
The symptoms of Raynaud's may last from a few minutes to a few hours.
Raynaud's is sometimes caused by another health condition, taking certain medicines, or working with vibrating tools for a long time.
Things you can do to help Raynaud's
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
do not smoke – improve your circulation by stopping smoking ↗
do not have too much caffeine (found in tea, coffee, cola and chocolate) – it may trigger the symptoms of Raynaud's
See a GP if:
- your symptoms are very bad or getting worse
- Raynaud's is affecting your daily life
- your symptoms are only on 1 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 for Raynaud's from a GP
If your symptoms are very bad or getting worse, a GP may prescribe a medicine to help improve your circulation, such as nifedipine ↗, which is used to treat high blood pressure.
Some people need to take this medicine every day. Others only use it to prevent Raynaud's – for example, during cold weather.
A GP may arrange tests if they think Raynaud's could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis ↗ or lupus ↗.
Support from SRUK
SRUK ↗ is a charity for people with scleroderma and Raynaud's. It offers: