Revealing the Mystery: Unveiling the Cause of Raynaud’s Disease
By Emily Joshu, Health Reporter For Dailymail.Com
Published: 12:00, 05 Nov 2023 | Updated: 12:07, 05 Nov 2023
Researchers are making significant progress in the quest to understand the underlying causes of Raynaud’s disease. This condition, which affects hundreds of millions of individuals worldwide, manifests as chronic cold hands. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies that can provide relief when the notorious symptoms strike.
A recent study has revealed that changes to two specific genes play a role in the development of Raynaud’s syndrome, a condition that impairs blood supply to the fingers and toes. While healthcare experts have previously identified risk factors, lifestyle choices, and medical issues associated with the syndrome, the genetic cause has remained unknown until now.
Raynaud’s disease causes spasms in the blood vessels, leading to a reduction in blood flow to the extremities. To alleviate symptoms during an episode, running warm water over the hands and feet can be beneficial. Warm water acts as a vasodilator, expanding blood vessels and improving circulation. However, it is essential to avoid using hot water, as it can cause burns or numbness. Remember to wear extra layers of clothing after running warm water to retain the heat.
Additionally, swinging your arms in a windmill pattern can enhance blood flow to the arms and hands. This simple exercise can be performed while standing or during a leisurely walk. Wiggling your fingers and toes or placing your hands under your armpits, which are naturally warm, can also help keep the body temperature regulated.
When experiencing the initial signs of a Raynaud’s attack, quickly warm up your body by wearing mittens or wool socks. Mittens are recommended over gloves, as they keep the fingers together, promoting increased body heat. However, when indoors, consider using fingerless gloves, allowing you to continue typing or performing tasks that require manual dexterity.
It is advisable for individuals with Raynaud’s to avoid rapid temperature changes, such as going from a hot environment to a cold one. If unavoidable, layering with warm clothing can help prevent a sudden shift in body temperature. During the summer, it is also best to avoid excessively strong air conditioning settings.
Engaging in a short walk, when weather permits, can provide warmth to cold hands and feet. Walking increases heart rate, leading to vasodilation and improved blood circulation. This, in turn, allows for better oxygen flow to the extremities.
Raynaud’s disease is characterized by the constriction of blood vessels in the fingers and toes due to drops in temperature or increased stress levels. The condition can also affect the arteries in the nose, ears, and tongue. Symptoms include white and numb fingers or toes, followed by a blue discoloration and eventually redness accompanied by a burning sensation. Attacks can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. It predominantly affects women, with most individuals experiencing their first attack before the age of 40.
While Raynaud’s disease is manageable for most individuals by keeping warm, some may develop painful ulcers that require proper treatment. Only a small percentage of patients with Raynaud’s go on to develop a more severe connective tissue disorder known as scleroderma, which can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
Fortunately, Raynaud’s disease has a straightforward treatment plan, and a drug called nifedipine can provide temporary relief by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.
In conclusion, although Raynaud’s disease remains a challenge for many, ongoing research and effective remedies can alleviate its symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.
