Raynaud's Syndrome: Information & Doctors

In Raynaud’s syndrome, the fingers or toes suddenly become cold or numb. The fingers are more commonly affected.

Due to abnormalities in the small blood vessels, blood flow to the extremities is reduced. In addition to numbness and coldness, the affected extremities may also experience

• pallor,
• bluish discoloration, or
• redness

. Not least for this reason, Raynaud’s syndrome is also referred to as a condition with the so-called “tricolor phenomenon.” Tricolor means “three colors.”

There are two distinct forms of this condition:

In primary Raynaud’s syndrome, the cause cannot be definitively determined. Younger women are particularly affected. Statistically, women are five times more likely to suffer from this condition than men. It most commonly affects women between the ages of 20 and 40.

Secondary Raynaud’s syndrome is a consequence of other medical conditions. For example, it can occur in cases of

• rheumatism
• an overdose of certain medications
• injuries
• diseases, or
• genetic factors

can lead to this condition.

In Raynaud’s syndrome, fingers or toes suddenly turn pale © Creative Cat Studio | AdobeStock

In this condition, the fingers or toes suddenly turn pale and appear bloodless. Bluish discoloration and pain may also occur. Numbness and other abnormal sensations are also possible.

In the primary form, these attacks last about 30 minutes. However, they can also last longer. As the attacks subside, the skin may become red.

In primary Raynaud’s syndrome, symptoms typically occur in both hands and feet. In the secondary form, however, often only one side is affected.

In general, there is a risk that these spasms may persist for an extended period of time. In such cases, there is a risk of further damage, particularly to the skin. However, these effects are more common in the secondary form.

Additional symptoms such as skin swelling or changes in blood vessels may also occur.

Summary of common symptoms:

• Paleness 
• Bluish discoloration 
• Pain
• Cold extremities
• Skin redness
• Damage to tissue and blood vessels
• Skin swelling

The doctor can get an initial indication from the patient’s description of symptoms. For example, the doctor will ask when the abnormal sensations occur or how long they last. Additionally, the suspicion can be further confirmed by several tests.

One effective method is the fist-clenching test, which can provide insight into blood flow. In addition, a targeted examination of the arteries may be performed, as well as an attempt to trigger the symptoms by exposing the patient to sudden cold.

If the treating physician suspects secondary Raynaud’s syndrome, the examinations will be more extensive. For example, blood tests can provide clues about one underlying condition or another. A close inspection of the fingernails is also recommended, as typical signs may be visible in the nail fold.

Since it involves a spontaneous constriction of the blood vessels, cold plays a major role in its development. But there is another risk factor that is not unique to this condition: stress.

Ultimately, the exact causes of the primary form have not yet been definitively determined. However, smoking and hormonal imbalances are considered additional risk factors.

Secondary Raynaud’s syndrome can be triggered by various underlying conditions. For example, vascular diseases such as rheumatism or neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS) can play a role.

Cancer can also cause it. The same applies to carpal tunnel syndrome, in which nerves in the wrist area become compressed. Various autoimmune diseases can also contribute to Raynaud’s syndrome.

Primary Raynaud’s syndrome generally does not require any special treatment. Symptomatic therapy is usually sufficient, which means that the symptoms are managed without specific medical interventions, measures, or medications. If your extremities are cold, it can help to soak them in warm water. Cold fingers can also be warmed in the armpit.

Stress can also be a cause of Raynaud’s syndrome. Therefore, consistent stress reduction is recommended. Special programs, such as those for targeted muscle relaxation, can be helpful here. Massages and moving the limbs are also effective remedies, as they stimulate blood circulation.

To treat secondary Raynaud’s syndrome, the first step is to identify the underlying condition. Once the doctor has diagnosed it, targeted therapy can begin.

Medications that promote blood circulation may also be prescribed. If wounds have already developed due to tissue necrosis, these are treated.

Surgeries that block certain nerves are indicated primarily in more severe cases of the condition.

An overview of possible treatment methods:

• Stress reduction
• Massages and moving the affected limbs
• Soaking the limbs in warm water
• Medications
• Surgery

Primary Raynaud’s syndrome is not dangerous, and the spasmodic attacks tend to decrease with age. Quality of life is not significantly impaired.

The course of secondary Raynaud’s syndrome is somewhat more complicated. In this case, the underlying condition must first be treated, and any resulting damage must be addressed. In extreme cases, tissue damage may necessitate amputations, though these are relatively rare.