Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease is a rare disorder that causes spasms in small arteries in various locations throughout the body. Raynaud’s tends to affect the fingers, toes, nose, ears, nipples, and lips. The spasms typically occur in response to cold or to emotional stress, and while they are painful, they aren’t life threatening. 

The heart services team at Dignity Health of Southern California is committed to serving every patient with respect and humankindness, treating the whole person not just the condition. We provide comprehensive care for full range of cardiovascular conditions, including Raynaud’s disease, in Southern California. Find a Doctor who’s right for you at one of our convenient locations in Long Beach, Northridge, Downtown LA, Glendale, and San Bernardino.

Causes of Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s cases are classified as primary or secondary. The cause of primary Raynaud’s disease is not known. This is the most common type, and it improves or cures itself in the majority of adults affected by it. Secondary Raynaud’s (often called “Raynaud’s phenomenon”) is caused by another health issue, such as:

• Trauma to the hands or feet
• Exposure to certain chemicals
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Medications that cause blood vessels to narrow, including beta-blockers, anti-migraine medications, and decongestants
• An underlying disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, or lupus

Symptoms of Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s may cause the following symptoms in the affected area:

• Numbness or a cold feeling
• Skin that turns white and then possibly blue for a short period of time
• Skin that turns red and burns, tingles, or throbs as blood flow returns
• Ulcers and lesions of the toes, fingers, lips, earlobes, or nose

Treatment & Prevention of Raynaud’s Disease in Southern California

Because there is no cure for Raynaud’s disease, treatment and prevention strategies focus on maintaining quality of life and reducing attacks of Raynaud’s. You can reduce the recurrence and severity of Raynaud's attacks with lifestyle changes that help you avoid exposure to cold and promote relaxation. These changes can be small, such as warming up your car and wearing gloves during cold weather. Ulcers, sores, and infection can be prevented with thorough foot and skin care, including keeping your skin and feet warm, dry, and clean.

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

You can trust your treatment for Raynaud’s disease to the experts at Dignity Health Southern California.

Dignity Health provides prevention and treatment services for Raynaud’s disease in Southern California.