Raynaud syndrome

Raynaud syndrome, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, is a medical condition in which the spasm of small arteries causes episodes of reduced blood flow to end arterioles. Typically the disease affects the fingers, and, less commonly, the toes, though it rarely also affects the nose, ears, nipples, or lips. The episodes classically result in the affected part turning white and then blue. Often, numbness or pain occurs. As blood flow returns, the area turns red and burns. The episodes typically last minutes but can last several hours. The condition is named after the physician Auguste Gabriel Maurice Raynaud, who first described it in his doctoral thesis in 1862.

Episodes are typically triggered by cold or emotional stress. Primary Raynaud's is idiopathic (spontaneous and of unknown cause) and not correlated with another disease. Secondary Raynaud's is diagnosed given the presence of an underlying condition and is associated with an older age of onset. In comparison to primary Raynaud's, episodes are more likely to be painful and asymmetric and progress to digital ulcerations. Secondary Raynaud's can be due to a connective-tissue disorder such as scleroderma or lupus, injuries to the hands, prolonged vibration, smoking, thyroid problems, and certain medications, such as birth control pills and stimulants. Diagnosis is typically based on the symptoms.

The primary treatment is avoiding the cold. Other measures include the discontinuation of nicotine or other stimulant use. Medications for treatment of cases that do not improve include calcium channel blockers and iloprost. As with any ailment, there is little evidence that alternative medicine is helpful. Severe Raynaud's may in rare cases lead to complications, specifically skin sores or gangrene.

About 4% of people have the condition. Onset of the primary form is typically between ages 15 and 30. The secondary form usually affects older people. Both forms are more common in cold climates.