Raynaud’s Disease is a disorder of blood supply that affects fingers and toes, but in some case it may also affect a persons nose chin and cheeks. The symptoms are brought on by cold temperatures or sometimes by high levels of stress or tension. It is a peculiar disease in that it occurs almost exclusively in younger women.
The attacks of Raynaud’s are usually spontaneous and leave just as spontaneous. Though the application of warmth will end the attack in most cases. Some cases of the disease are know to cease simply by moving to a warmer climate, but unfortunately this doesn’t work for everyone. The condition for some only continues to get worse.
For the unlucky patients who progress to the later stages of the disease pain and disablement is what they have to look forward to. Ulcers, stiffness of joints, contractures and most of all severe pain. Surgery is sometimes the only answer for these people. A procedure called sympathectomy is sometimes the answer. This is surgery where the nerves that affect the blood vessels of the problem area are cut. It is not a full proof surgery and may only work for a short time.
Some patients do take medications for the disease but often quit due to the side affects of the drugs. For most it is the home born remedies that work the best. Warm environment, warm clothes and sometimes a hot cup of tea are all that is needed.
Though efforts are being made daily to cure Raynaud’s Disease there is still no cut and dry answer. Until they discover the actual cause of this disorder it is likely they will not cure it.