7 Interesting Facts about Raynaud’s Disease

These are 7 interesting facts about Raynaud’s we found on the Nutra Legacy web site:

1. Cold Temperatures can cause Raynaud’s Attacks
   While everyone experiences a decrease in blood flow in their circulatory system in cold weather, individuals with Raynaud’s Disease have a greater response to cold. In fact, even holding a cold beverage can change the skin color on the tips of your fingers!
2. Primary Raynaud’s is More Common Than Secondary Raynaud’s
   Primary Raynaud’s occurs without an underlying disease. Secondary Raynaud’s, on the other hand (no pun intended), usually appears later in life and can be triggered by various conditions such as lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases. Lifestyle choices such as smoking or even your work, such as occupations that handle vibrating equipment like construction, can even trigger Raynaud’s. This is a more serious form of the disease.
3. Primary Raynaud’s Disease Affects Women More Than Men
   It especially affects women between the ages of 15 and 30, and as one would assume, it affects women in colder climates more than those that live in warmer climates.
4. Family History Matters
   Over 30% of individuals with primary Raynaud’s Disease have an immediate family member with the condition.
5. Certain Medications Can Aggravate the Condition
   Over-the-counter drugs with pseudoephedrine as well as beta blockers and even birth control can increase your attacks from Raynaud’s Disease.
6. Warm Water Can Quell an Attack
   If you experience an attack you can put your hands and feet under warm water to alleviate the pain. Other strategies are to move your hands and feet to increase blood flow and to rub them where they are sore to help with circulation.
   
   
7. Niacin Can Increase Blood Flow
   If you suffer from Raynaud’s Disease try taking some Niacin, also known as Vitamin B-3, to dilate your blood vessels and increase blood flow. (Note:  First check with your doctor before taking any dietary supplements.  None have to date been clinically proven for the treatment of Raynaud’s.)

Raynaud’s Disease should be taken seriously and you should take every precaution possible to prevent attacks. Dress properly when outside and always wear gloves and wool socks to insulate your hands and feet.  Prevention is your best defense. 

Here’s a link to the full article:

http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/7-interesting-facts-about-raynauds-disease/