If you’re suffering from Raynaud syndrome, there are things you can do to help the condition and minimize the discomfort you feel. Many people know the feeling of numbness or tingling in your fingers and toes when it’s really cold outside, but for those with Raynaud syndrome, this is an ongoing problem. Raynaud syndrome is quite rare, but if you have primary or secondary Raynaud’s there are ways to combat symptoms at home. Check out 7 natural Raynaud syndrome remedies to prevent and treat your symptoms!
What is Raynaud Syndrome?
Raynaud syndrome, also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon, is a disease that causes decreased blood flow to the fingers and toes, causing them to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. In some cases, it can affect the ears, nipples, knees or nose. It can cause your fingers to turn different colours (white and then blue) and an attack can last a few minutes to more than an hour.
Raynaud syndrome often begins in people between the ages of 15 and 25 and is characterized by episodic spasms, called vasospastic attacks. There are two types of Raynaud syndrome: primary and secondary. Primary, which is the most common and the milder of the two, has no other diseases or associated medical problems that may cause Raynaud syndrome. Secondary Raynaud syndrome is often more serious and caused by an underlying disease or condition, particularly connective tissue diseases.
What Causes Raynaud Syndrome?
Raynaud syndrome is typically triggered by cold temperatures, anxiety or stress. It’s caused by overly-sensitive blood vessels in the fingers and occurs when the small blood vessels in the fingers spasm and decrease blood flow to the fingertips. Under normal circumstances, when a person is exposed to cold, their body’s response is to slow the loss of heat. For people who have Raynaud’s, this normal body response is intensified by contractions of the small blood vessels in the fingers and toes. In some cases the arteries of the fingers or toes collapse or constrict, which greatly decreases the supply of blood to the affected body parts.
The lack of blood flow is often what causes a pale or white discolouration. Afterwards, your fingers can turn blue or red due to a sudden influx of blood once the episode is over. Certain factors can also put you at a higher risk of developing Raynaud syndrome, such as:
- Connective tissue or autoimmune disease
- Smoking
- Chemical exposure
- Injury or trauma
- Side effects from certain medications
- Repetitive actions, such as the use of tools that vibrate like a jackhammer
5 Raynaud Syndrome Signs and Symptoms
1. Extreme sensitivity to cold
2. Your body may react to stress as if it were reacting to cold
3. Fingers that turn pale or white, then blue or red when exposed to cold or during stress
4. Coldness, pain and numbness, similar to when your fingers or hands have fallen asleep
5. Prickling or stinging pain upon warming or stress relief
When to See a Doctor
You should see your medical professional right away if you have a history of Raynaud syndrome and develop a sore or infection in one of your affected fingers or toes.
7 Natural Raynaud Syndrome Remedies
1. Stay Warm
To prevent an attack, it’s especially important to keep your hands and feet warm, but you’ll want to keep your entire body warm as well. In cold weather, be sure to layer up in loose clothing, socks, hats and gloves or mittens. A lot of body heat is lost through the head, so wearing a hat is particularly important. If you’re going to be out in the cold for long periods of time, consider heating pouches that can be placed in your pockets, gloves or boots. Avoid touching cold metals or holding cold drinks, and steer clear of air conditioned rooms and the frozen food sections of grocery stores as much as possible.
2. Stay Dry
Sweat that cools on the skin can trigger a Raynaud’s attack, so it’s important to keep your skin dry. Wear socks, gloves and exercise gear made from moisture-wicking fabrics that keep moisture away from the skin. Make sure to dry your hair and skin right after exercise or any sweat-inducing activity.
3. Quit Smoking
If you’re a smoker, one of the best ways to combat Raynaud syndrome is to quit. Nicotine causes the skin temperature to drop, which can lead to an attack, plus smoking narrows blood vessels, which makes Raynaud’s worse.
4. Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is often recommended for those who have Raynaud’s as it promotes overall wellbeing, increases energy levels, helps control weight and promotes restful sleep. It’s known to get the blood flowing through your body, boosting circulation and improving Raynaud’s attacks. Aim to get your heart rate up to ensure the blood is pumped around your body, but be sure to stick within your limitations. Walking, swimming and cycling are excellent low impact exercises that work your cardio system.
5. Stress Management
Since stress can be a trigger for Raynaud’s attacks, it’s helpful to manage stress as much as possible. Relaxation exercises, meditation and yoga are all great for managing stress, and it’s also beneficial to learn to recognize and avoid situations that are stressful to you. Taking breaks when you need them, getting out into nature and making time for hobbies are all excellent ways to reduce stress.
6. Try Fish Oil and Ginkgo Supplements
Although more research is needed as to how well these supplements work for Raynaud’s, it’s believed that fish oil supplements may help improve your tolerance to cold and ginkgo supplements could help decrease the frequency of Raynaud’s attacks as it can increase circulation in the fingers. Adding these supplements to your daily routine could be helpful.
7. Follow an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Secondary Raynaud’s is commonly associated with autoimmune disease symptoms, and eating a diet high in anti-inflammatory foods is one of the best ways to try to relieve both conditions. Make sure your diet is rich in omega-3s, dark leafy greens, vegetables, berries, wild caught salmon, nuts and seeds and bone broth. Avoid eating foods that weaken your immune system and lead to inflammation such as processed and fast foods, foods made with artificial ingredients and chemicals, deli meats and alcohol.
If you have Raynaud syndrome, we hope these prevention tips and remedies provide you with some relief.
