For individuals with Raynaud’s, staying warm and comfortable in the office can be a challenge, as the indoor temperature may not always be comfortable for those sensitive to cold temperatures. We hear about this issue frequently and decided to put together several ideas that can help those with Raynaud’s stay warm in the office – not just in the colder winter months, but all year-round.
One of the most important strategies for patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon is to dress in layers. Wearing multiple layers of clothing can help trap heat close to the body and provide an extra barrier against the cold. Opt for clothing made from materials such as wool or fleece, which are known for their ability to retain heat. Additionally, wearing gloves, socks, and a hat can help keep extremities warm and prevent episodes of Raynaud’s, but may draw attention from fellow workers who don’t understand why anyone would need to wear warming accessories indoors.
One layer that may offer fashionable warmth without the visibility of warming accessories is a heated vest. Many options are available today that add a sporty look to everyday outfits, and won’t draw attention during cold weather or heavily air-conditioned months. Several brands we’ve tested offer multiple heating zones – not just the core, but also the neck, shoulders and pocket areas. Heated vests also offer an attractive alternative to grandma’s cardigan kept handy on the back of the office door for cold occasions. Best of all, fellow workers won’t know what’s bringing that warm smile to your face! Consider a reputable brand like Venustas, Gobi or Volt as it’s important to ensure both battery safety and consistency when purchasing heated apparel.
Another helpful office warming strategy for those with Raynaud’s is a space heater to help keep the surrounding temperature at a comfortable level and help prevent Raynaud’s symptoms from flaring up. Position the space heater near the desk or work area to ensure warmth throughout the day. It is important to follow safety guidelines when using a space heater, such as keeping it away from flammable materials and turning it off when not in use. And always check with your office to ensure space heaters are allowed.
In addition to dressing in layers, wearing heated apparel and using a space heater, patients with Raynaud’s can also try using hand warmers or heated blankets to stay warm in the office, but again, they can draw attention. Rechargeable hand warmers, like those from Ocoopa, are small, portable devices that provide instant warmth. Many of Ocoopa’s models fit well in the palm or in pockets so fellow office mates may not notice them – only your contented face enjoying the warmth! Heated blankets like the rechargeable battery-operated ones from Cozee can be draped over the legs or shoulders to provide a cozy and comforting heat source. Or opt for a self-heating throw from FibreHeat®. These products can be especially helpful during colder months or in offices with poor insulation and both offer solutions without requiring nearby plugs or cords to maintain the extra warmth.
For those with frosty fingers who type and need maximum dexterity in the office, gloves are generally impossibly challenging. But we’ve discovered a thin, stretchy option made for typing called The Writer’s Glove®. These gloves feel like a second skin with a hint of copper and graphene known for their thermal properties. They are screen-sensitive and have silicone grips for holding objects like a pen, computer mouse or coffee cup which can be issues with most gloves or mittens.
Other warming accessories that help with typing include heated keyboards and mouse pads. Several Frosties tell us they find them helpful, but we haven’t to date tested products in these categories that we’d suggest at this point.
Overall, staying warm in the office is essential for workers with Raynaud’s phenomenon. By following these strategies and arming yourself with the right apparel and accessories, Frosties can help prevent Raynaud’s symptoms and stay comfortable throughout the workday. It is, however, important to communicate with your employer about your condition and work together to create a comfortable and accommodating work environment. By taking proactive steps to stay warm in the office, people with Raynaud’s can comfortably thrive in the workplace.
