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What Causes Raynaud’s Syndrome?
Doctors have yet to determine a specific cause for Raynaud’s syndrome. For reasons unknown, women are nine times more likely to get it than men, and symptoms may appear at any age. Doctors do know Raynaud’s attacks are triggered when the blood vessels overreact to cold temperatures — and, in some cases, to stress. When this happens, the arteries become narrow and deliver a limited supply of blood to the fingers, toes, and other extremities. Over time, these small arteries may continue to slightly thicken and further restrict blood flow. Symptoms of a Raynaud’s attack include:
- Pain
- Numbness
- Throbbing
- Tingling
- Skin color changes from white to blue to red
Primary vs. Secondary Raynaud’s
The most common type of Raynaud’s is called primary Raynaud’s. With this condition, the syndrome typically appears between the ages of 15 and 25, without any other illness behind it. Primary Raynaud’s may be mild and even resolve on its own.
Secondary Raynaud’s, while less common, can be more serious. This form of Raynaud’s is associated with underlying medical issues, such as:
- Artery diseases, such as atherosclerosis and primary pulmonary hypertension
- Connective tissue diseases, such as scleroderma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Injuries to the hands and feet
Other risk factors linked with secondary Raynaud’s include smoking, having an occupation that requires repetitive motions or vibrations, such as typing or operating a jackhammer, or taking certain medications that restrict the blood vessels. These may be prescription or over-the-counter drugs for high blood pressure, cancer, migraines, ADHD, or the common cold.
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