How to Raynaud's Phenomenon/What it is/Symptoms of Raynaud's/Affects women and...

A condition where the sufferer's nerves are misfiring. A lack of circulation in feet and hands. Can be caused by cold temperatures, stress, and....

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. A condition where the sufferer's nerves are misfiring and wrongfully contracting the blood vessels. Commonly known as Raynaud's Phenomenon. About 75% of all cases diagnosed occur in women between 15 and 40 years old. It has also shown up in those who have been, and, are easily stressed and deeply emotional. This circulatory problem is more difficult to treat than other circulatory problem's because it is partly caused by psychological susceptibility and usually calls for counseling to teach the sufferer how to control his or her energy by handling problems more constructively.
2. The most common symptom of "Raynaud's Phenomenon" is skin discoloration.
   This discoloration occurs because an abnormal spasm of the blood vessels causes a diminished blood supply to the local tissues, causing the digit's involved to turn white. The digit(s) then turn blue because of prolonged lack of oxygen. Finally, the blood vessels reopen, causing a local "flushing" phenomenon, which turns the digit(s) red.
3. This three-phase color sequence (white to blue to red), most often upon exposure to cold temperature, is characteristic of RP. Raynaud's phenomenon is divided into two classifications: primary and secondary.
   Primary Raynaud's phenomenon is considered the more common. There is no underlying disease associated with the primary classification.
   Secondary Raynaud's phenomenon is less common, but is considered the more serious of the two classifications.
4. Secondary "Raynuad's Phenomenon" is associated with an underlying disease, most commonly, one of the connective tissue diseases.
   People with secondary Raynaud's phenomenon are more likely to be prescribed medications.
   In severe cases, Raynaud's phenomenon can be treated surgically with a sympathectomy, whereby nerves that control the contraction of arteries are cut. Treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon is aimed at reducing the number of attacks and preventing tissue damage in the affected areas.
   Most people learn to live with Raynaud's phenomenon. If you have Raynaud's, be sure to wear proper shoes and socks in winter to keep warm and even dress warmly in the summer.

Tips & Warnings

• Vitamin E counteracts Raynaud's by dilating the blood vessels, which gets more blood to flow to your feet and legs.
• Vitamin C will work to strengthen arterial walls.