Raynaud’s Disease
Raynaud’s phenomenon or disease refers to the condition where blood flow to the nose, ears, toes, and fingers is interrupted or restricted. It occurs if your upper and lower extremities’ blood vessels constrict, which can cause circulation issues and keep the immune system from functioning as intended, resulting in an increased risk of developing bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. This includes ringworm, athlete’s foot, strep throat, aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, among many others.
While health experts have yet to determine the cause of Raynaud’s disease, various factors seem to provoke the condition. These include genetics, impaired circulation, miscommunication of the nervous system, and blood thickness. On the other hand, health conditions, lifestyle habits, and medications that affect connective tissue and blood vessels are usually linked to secondary Reynaud’s. Some of these are smoking, medications like amphetamines and beta blockers, arthritis, atherosclerosis, and autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
A cure for Raynaud’s disease has yet to be found. However, managing the symptoms and minimizing the attacks is possible through lifestyle changes and different treatment options. Avoiding tobacco use and caffeine products, regularly exercising, staying warm, and taking prescription medications like phosphodiesterase inhibitors and topical nitrates can help treat the condition.
