Expert Treatment for Raynaud’s Disease in Arizona

Raynaud’s disease causes spasms in small arteries in various places throughout the body during emotional stress or exposure to cold. This vascular condition is rare and is sometimes known as Raynaud’s phenomenon, Raynaud’s syndrome, or Raynaud’s disorder. Raynaud’s disease usually affects the fingers, but it can also occur in the lips, nipples, ears, nose, and toes. The spasms are painful but aren’t life threatening.

Dignity Health is a nationally recognized leader in heart and vascular care. Cardiovascular services are offered at our St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and Chandler Regional Medical Center locations. We provide a full range of care for Raynaud’s disease in Arizona by a team of cardiologists, nurses, therapists, dietitians, specialists, and technicians. Find a Doctor by calling (844) 852-0648 or using our online tool.

What Causes of Raynaud’s Disease?

Raynaud’s disease is classified as primary or secondary. When Raynaud’s disease occurs by itself it is considered primary Raynaud’s. The cause of primary Raynaud’s disease is not known.

Secondary Raynaud’s is caused by another health issue such as:

• An underlying disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjogren’s syndrome
• Certain medications, including those that constrict the arteries to control migraine headaches
• Trauma to the feet or hands
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Exposure to certain chemicals

Secondary Raynaud’s is the most common type of Raynaud’s disease. It usually improves or cures itself in time.

Common Raynaud’s Symptoms

Raynaud’s disease causes spasms of blood vessels in response to cold or during emotional stress. Symptoms may include:

• Skin that turns red and burns, tingles, or throbs as blood flow returns
• A cold feeling or numbness in the affected area
• Skin that turns white and then sometimes blue for a short period of time
• Lesions and ulcers of the fingers, earlobes, lips, nose, or toes

Treatment Raynaud’s Disease at Dignity Health

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Raynaud’s disease. Lifestyle changes that promote relaxation and focus on avoiding exposure to cold can help reduce the severity and frequency of Raynaud’s disease attacks. Simple things, such as warming up your car during cold weather and wearing gloves in the winter, can help maintain your quality of life if you have Raynaud’s disease. Keeping affected areas, such as your feet, warm, dry, and clean, will help prevent ulcers, infections, and sores.

When a medical intervention is necessary, it usually involves taking a prescription drug. Surgery is rarely used to treat Raynaud’s disease.