Understanding Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease occurs when the blood vessels of the body constrict in response to cold temperature or stress. It is an overreaction of the body to the stimuli. Raynaud’s disease can turn the skin of the hands, feet, ears, or nose blue or white under cold or stress. The skin tends to turn red as it gets warmer; a cold tingling and prickling sensation follows. Usually, the overreaction is temporary, but it can frequently happen to patients with autoimmune diseases. Persistent and strong overreactions can lead to nerve and tissue damage. Various risk factors can increase an individual’s chance of developing Raynaud’s disease.

RISK FACTORS OF RAYNAUD’S DISEASE

Gender: Women are more affected by Raynaud’s than men.
Age: Raynaud’s phenomenon usually affects people from ages fifteen to thirty.
Climate: People living in colder climates are more likely to develop this condition.
Family history: If you have a parent, sibling, or child with Raynaud’s disease, then you’re at a higher risk of developing it.
Smoking: Active or even passive smoking constricts the blood vessels that can trigger Raynaud’s syndrome.
Co-morbidities: Diseases like diabetes and autoimmune diseases can make an individual susceptible to secondary Raynaud’s disease.
Injuries to the feet: Foot injuries, prior surgeries, or frostbite are high-risk factors.
Overuse injuries: Consistent pressure on the nerves or repetitive injury to the feet can damage the nerves and blood vessels.

If you are suffering from any of the risk factors of Raynaud’s disease, then you must see a podiatrist on a regular basis to ensure you are not developing this disease. People facing Raynaud’s phenomenon should seek a podiatrist who can help them devise a treatment plan to limit the attacks and effectively control them. An early treatment plan can protect your nerves and blood vessels from getting damaged.

Our highly-experienced podiatrist, Dr. John C. Marzano, and the dedicated team at Westchester Podiatric Healing Medicine, P.C., NY, can effectively address your foot and ankle health issues. Contact us at (914) 423-0600 for more information and to book your appointments. We are located at 984 N. Broadway, Suite LL03, Yonkers, NY 10701.