Secondary Raynaud’s is a medical condition that affects the blood vessels in the extremities, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. In contrast to primary Raynaud’s, it is a more severe form of Raynaud’s phenomenon and is often associated with an underlying medical condition.
While primary Raynaud’s has no apparent cause, the secondary form is usually a symptom of a more serious health issue. This article will explore the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for secondary Raynaud’s.
Causes:
Secondary Raynaud’s can be caused by various medical conditions that affect the blood vessels or the body’s ability to regulate blood flow. Some of the common causes include:
- Connective tissue disorders: Conditions such as systemic sclerosis (aka scleroderma), lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to secondary Raynaud’s. These disorders cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels, resulting in decreased blood flow to the extremities.
- Vascular diseases: Conditions like atherosclerosis, vasculitis, and Buerger’s disease can cause secondary Raynaud’s by narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow.
- Medications: Certain drugs, such as beta-blockers, migraine medications, and chemotherapy drugs, have be