What is Raynaud's disease?
Blood flow through the fingers is carefully regulated. Temperature changes, emotions or internal triggers (such as caffeine or smoking) cause changes in the blood flow to our fingers.
Sometimes spasms of blood vessels can cause the involved finger to turn white and cold, then purple, red and warm. This cycle typically takes 5-20 minutes and can be painful. This is called Raynaud’s disease and can be functionally debilitating.
Treatment for Raynaud's Disease
Treatment of Raynaud’s disease starts with avoiding triggers. After that, medical treatment or medication injections are the preferred treatment. In stubborn and severe cases, surgery to help blood vessels relax, can be considered.