Raynaud's Disease | SMC Physicians, New Jersey

Rheumatology

Raynaud’s Disease

If you or someone you know has experienced fingers or toes turning white or blue when exposed to cold temperatures or feeling stressed, you may be familiar with a condition called Raynaud’s disease.

What is Raynaud’s?

Raynaud’s disease, sometimes called Raynaud’s phenomenon or Raynaud’s syndrome, is a condition that affects blood circulation in the extremities, primarily the fingers, toes, ears, and nose, in response to cold temperatures or emotional stress. The reduced blood flow leads to color changes, numbness, and a tingling sensation.

Types of Raynaud’s

There are two types of Raynaud’s: primary and secondary. Primary Raynaud’s is the most common form and is usually less severe. It occurs on its own and is not caused by an underlying medical condition. Secondary Raynaud’s is caused by an underlying health issue, such as connective tissue diseases (e.g., scleroderma, lupus), certain medications, occupational exposure to certain chemicals, or vascular disorders.

Recognizing Raynaud’s Symptoms

Common symptoms of Raynaud’s disease include:

Color changes in the skin: Fingers or toes may turn white, then blue, and eventually red when blood flow returns.
Numbness and tingling: Affected areas may feel numb or have a prickling sensation.
Pain and throbbing: As blood flow returns, you may experience pain and a throbbing sensation.
Sensitivity to cold: Cold temperatures or even a slight drop in temperature can trigger an episode.
Emotional stress: Stress or emotional triggers can also cause a Raynaud’s episode.

We Can Help You Manage Raynaud’s

While Raynaud’s cannot be cured, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce the frequency and severity of episodes:

a. Lifestyle Modifications:

Keep warm: Layer your clothing to trap heat and insulate your body. Wear gloves, warm socks, and thermal footwear to maintain body temperature. Warm baths or soaking hands and feet in warm water can also be helpful.
Avoid triggers: Limit exposure to cold temperatures and take precautions to keep your extremities warm. When going outside, cover your face and wear a scarf to protect your nose and mouth.
Stress management: Emotional stress can contribute to Raynaud’s attacks. Learn and practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.

b. Medications:

Calcium channel blockers: These medications, including nifedipine or amlodipine, can help relax and widen blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
Topical treatments: Nitroglycerin cream or gel can be applied to affected areas to improve blood flow.

c. Occupational Considerations:

If exposure to cold or vibrating equipment on the job triggers your Raynaud’s attacks, discuss possible modifications with your employer. Consider using heated work gloves or taking regular breaks to warm up in a heated area.

d. Alternative Therapies:

Biofeedback: This technique helps individuals gain control over involuntary bodily functions through visual or auditory feedback.
Acupuncture: Some individuals find relief from Raynaud’s symptoms through acupuncture.

Choose SMC Physicians

If you or someone you know experiences Raynaud’s symptoms, such as color changes in the extremities or sensitivity to cold and stress, seeking professional evaluation is crucial. Learn about the two types of Raynaud’s, primary and secondary, and discover effective management strategies, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and alternative therapies. The management of Raynaud’s Disease is personalized, and it may take time to find the strategies that work best for you.

Our healthcare professionals can help you develop a personalized plan to manage Raynaud’s and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with our Rheumatology team at SMC Physicians for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance today.

Conditions We Treat

We provide ultrasound-guided arthrocentesis (joint injections) of both steroids and gel injections such as Orthovisc and Synvisc.

We offer a state-of-the art private infusion center at each location, offering the following medications and more:

Entyvio
Evenity
Ilumya
Iron Infusions
Krystexxa
Saphnelo
Stelara
Remicade
Cimzia
Orencia
Rituxan
Actemra
Simponi Aria
Benlysta
Prolia
Reclast

Our Rheumatologists

Paolo Tempongko, MD

Rheumatology

Mariam Alikhan, MD, FACR

Rheumatology

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Phone

609-350-6780

Fax

609-350-6995

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Raynaud’s Disease