Are You at Risk of Developing Raynaud’s Disease?

What the heck is Raynaud’s? You might have it if your feet have been getting extra cold lately in response to winter. Let us at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists break it down in a nutshell: instead of just narrowing a little bit to keep you warm, the blood vessels in your feet slam shut and cut off the supply lines to your toes. But why does it happen to some people and not others? Let's look at who’s most likely to be part of the Raynaud’s club.

Primary Raynaud’s

Most people have Primary Raynaud’s. This is the version that isn't caused by another medical condition:

• Weirdly enough, women are about nine times more likely to get this than men. We don't fully know why, but hormonal influences and the way female bodies prioritize core heat are likely suspects.
• Raynaud’s disease usually makes its debut between the ages of 15 and 30. If you haven't seen it by the time you're 40, you’re likely in the clear for the primary version.
• Geography matters. If you live in a place where winter lasts six months, your body is in a constant state of high alert, which makes you way more likely to develop these vasospasms.

When Raynaud’s Disease Is a Side Effect

Then there is Secondary Raynaud’s. This is a bit more serious because it’s usually a symptom of something else going on under the hood.

• People with Lupus, Scleroderma, or Rheumatoid Arthritis often deal with Raynaud’s because their immune system is already attacking the body’s connective tissues and blood vessels.
• People who use vibrating tools like jackhammers, chainsaws, or even heavy-duty industrial sewing machines can actually damage the nerves and vessels in their extremities over time.
• Smoking is a massive risk factor. Nicotine is a natural vasoconstrictor, meaning it tells your blood vessels to shrink. If you have Raynaud’s and you smoke, you’re essentially pouring gasoline on a fire.

Should I Panic over Raynaud’s Disease?

Generally speaking, there is no need to panic if you notice your toes changing colors in the cold. For most people, Raynaud’s is a manageable quirk of an overactive nervous system.

However, you should definitely book an appointment with a podiatrist if the thaw becomes excruciatingly painful, or if you notice skin ulcers, sores that won't heal, or a persistent blue tint that doesn't go away once you're warm, as these can signal tissue damage or an underlying secondary medical condition.

If you’re a smoker or have a known autoimmune disorder, like we said earlier, it’s also worth a check-up just to ensure your circulation is being properly monitored throughout the winter.

For any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, come see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.