Irish Raynaud's & Scleroderma Society

What is Raynaud’s?

Raynaud’s is a condition in which the flow of blood circulating to the fingers and toes is constricted in response to even moderate cold or stress, causing pain and numbness and preventing ordinary activities. It is not the same as simply having cold hands or feet, and results in dramatic changes in colour from white to blue to red. If your fingers or toes look stark white or dark blue sometimes, and turn red when the blood rushes back later, you should ask your doctor about Raynaud’s.

Raynaud’s is quite common

Raynaud’s is quite common. Over 10% of any population may have the condition, which is neither contagious nor hereditary, affects more women than men, and is often mild. It is most obvious in the fingers and toes, but can affect the ears, nose, tongue and other parts of the body.

The cause is unknown

The cause is as yet unknown and at present there is no cure. Basically it is an over-reaction by your body to cold and stress. In severe cases the blood-flow does not return to normal fast enough and the resulting damage can cause severe problems, starting with open sores that heal very slowly.

Living a normal life

Changes in lifestyle, heating aids and medication can help sufferers to live a normal active life. You can learn strategies to minimise attacks see Patient Information 

Rheumatologist

If you are severely affected you should be under the care of a rheumatologist. You will find information on how to manage Raynaud’s and the treatments suggested by doctors throughout this site.  Here are some helpful tips

Further Information

Additional information is available by downloading the documents below - see Document Downloads.