Irish Raynaud's & Scleroderma Society

Treating Raynaud’s

There isn’t a cure for Raynaud’s, but attacks can be effectively managed by self-help and dietary supplements and, in severe cases, by medications.  Treatment does not always require medical intervention.  Those with a mild condition can prevent attacks by wearing insulated gloves and socks and warmer clothing, modifying their activites, and avoiding changes in temperature see Patient Information/Managing Raynaud’s

Regular exercise is also extremely beneficial, and handwarmers are invaluable during cold weather.  These can be bought online from here.  The Society’s Membership Pack contains details of all this, along with tips on keeping warm.  Become a member

MEDICATION

In more severe cases, GPs will prescribe drugs that dilate the blood vessels.  They will also treat digital ulcers to prevent serious infection; new drugs are available that prevent ulcers from forming.  Drug therapy is indicated for those suffering intense pain and functional impairment, and provides relief of symptoms rather than a cure.

Patient response varies, so often several drugs must be tried one after the other.  Sometimes these are given intravenously in hospital over several days.  Be aware that drugs taken for other reasons, such as ergotamine and beta-blockers, may actually cause Raynaud’s attacks, and discuss this with your doctor.

SURGERY

Surgery is no longer a popular option with doctors or patients. A surgical procedure called cervical sympathectomy has been shown repeatedly to be of little or no benefit. If required in very severe cases it can be performed by laser. Lumbar sympathectomies for the feet, however, can have good results, and may be carried out by injection rather than surgery. An operation on the nerves in the hand has been shown to relieve severe pain and to heal finger ulcers, and while not a cure, it may reduce the severity of attacks.

CHILDREN

Raynaud’s is quite rare in children, but common in teenagers, who are often free of it again in their twenties. It is challenging, but essential, to ensure that they wear warm clothing to prevent attacks. It is always wise to see a doctor in case Raynaud’s is a symptom of an underlying condition. Morphea should be treated by a paediatric rheumatologist or dermatologist as early as feasible.