Raynaud's Disease and Its Effect on the Feet

Raynaud’s disease is the tightening of the blood vessels caused by cold temperatures or high stress levels and is typically temporary. While it’s not a severe health issue for many, for some individuals with autoimmune diseases, this condition can appear as a secondary disease and cause health problems and discomfort. Because October is Raynaud’s Awareness Month, in today’s post, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, shares what you need to know, including symptoms and treatment options.

Symptoms of Raynaud’s disease include:

• Tingling in the fingers and toes as they get warm.
• Cold toes and fingers.
• The skin might turn stark white or blue, then red when it warms up.

Treatment of Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s can be managed by following these at-home treatments.

• By controlling your stress level, recurrent attacks can be avoided.
• Don’t smoke; even passive smoking can constrict the blood vessels and trigger Raynaud’s disease.
• Wear layers of warm clothing, such as heavy gloves and socks, before going out in the cold. Purchase chemical warmers for your gloves, pockets, and socks.
• Regular exercise can boost blood circulation in the body.
• Soak or run warm water over your feet and hands if you feel an attack is imminent.
• Keep your body’s temperature constant by not moving from warm to cold places.
• Don’t take medications that can trigger Raynaud’s, such as decongestant drugs with phenylephrine.

While Raynaud’s disease is not typically dangerous, in rare cases, it can become serious, restrict the blood supply to the feet and hands, and cause skin sores or tissue damage.

Patients with a medical history of autoimmune diseases and diabetes are prone to Raynaud’s, so visit your podiatrist as early as possible to save your limbs from damage.

For treatment for all your foot and ankle problems and expert medical advice, contact Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936.