What Is Raynaud’s Syndrome And How To Manage It

Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition where stress and/or cold temperatures cause small blood vessels to narrow. This will restrict the blood flow temporarily to your fingers, toes, nose, and ears.

The affected area turns white, blue, and eventually bright red over the course of the attack. The attack may last from a few minutes to a couple of hours. This condition can range from mild to severe, which can be an autoimmune condition.

It comes with swelling, tingling sensation, and pain.

Types of Raynaud’s Syndrome

There are two types of Raynaud’s Syndrome:

• Primary Raynaud’s: It is also known as Raynaud’s disease and occurs for an unknown reason. It can be so mild that most people don’t seek treatment for it. The symptoms usually begin between the ages of 15 and 25.
• Secondary Raynaud’s: It is also called Raynaud’s phenomenon and is generally caused by other health conditions. It is more serious, and those suffering from autoimmune conditions are more likely to be affected. The symptoms usually start after the ages of 35 to 40.

4 Tips to Manage Raynaud’s Syndrome

Biofeedback

In biofeedback training, people suffering from Raynaud’s disease learn to consciously influence the body’s vital functions. These include breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate.

They learn how to influence these functions with the help of relaxation techniques and information feedback delivered by specialized electronic devices.

Nutritional Supplements

Early research suggested that nutritional supplements like fatty acid supplements can be mildly effective in relieving symptoms of Raynaud’s syndrome.

Warm Clothing 

Avoid cold environments or touching cold items. Don’t spend too much time in areas where temperatures fluctuate. You can get an attack at the slightest change in temperature.

Wear thin layers of clothes to keep yourself warm. Since cold temperature is one of the reasons behind Raynaud’s syndrome, using gloves to keep the hands warm will be helpful. Raynaud’s disease gloves can keep your hands and fingers warm. They will also help with proper blood circulation. Use socks to keep the toes and feet warm.

Exercise 

Exercises help in boosting blood circulation by helping in getting the blood flowing. If you are feeling cold, try pacing in the room or go for a walk to get warm.

You can try out low-impact exercises and activities like swimming, yoga, and Pilates. Make sure you check the temperature of the water before you go in for a swim. If it’s too cold, avoid it.

Try out meditation also because it will help you bring down your stress levels. Since stress also triggers a Raynaud’s attack, meditation will help you manage that.

Apart from these tips, try to avoid smoking and caffeine as well.

Final Words

You cannot recommend one particular remedy for everyone suffering from Raynaud’s syndrome. You need to see which one works best for you and follow that. If you are interested in trying a natural approach, speak with your healthcare provider first. They will help you weigh the risks and benefits before determining whether that approach is safe for you or not. You can then proceed accordingly with the treatment.

Author Bio: Kunal is a passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Clothing a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone.