8 Ways to Prevent Raynaud's Syndrome

Most people suffer from the effects of cold weather in the depths of winter, however Raynaud Syndrome, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, is a medical condition that affects the blood circulation.

When you're cold, anxious or stressed, your fingers and toes may change colour. More rarely, the nose, ears, or lips are affected. Raynaud Syndrome is common and does not usually cause any severe problems. Women are more likely than men to have Raynaud's Syndrome. It also appears to be more common in people who live in colder climates.

Treatment of Raynaud's disease depends on its severity and whether you have other health conditions. For most people, Raynaud's isn't disabling, but it can affect your quality of life. 

Other symptoms of Raynaud’s Syndrome can include:

• Pain
• Numbness
• Pins and needles
• Difficulty moving the affected area
• The skin turns white as blood flow is restricted.
• Sometimes the skin turns blue as blood vessels react.
• Some people also find their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected.

How to Prevent It?

• Keep your home warm - take precautions indoors. Wear socks. When taking food out of the refrigerator or freezer, wear gloves, mittens or oven mitts. Some people find it helpful to wear mittens and socks to bed during winter.
• Wear warm clothes during cold weather – especially on your hands and feet. Wear earmuffs and a face mask if the tip of your nose and your earlobes are sensitive to cold.
• Exercise regularly – this helps improve circulation
• Try breathing exercises or yoga to help you relax
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Cold temperatures are most likely to trigger an attack. Exposure to cold, such as putting your hands in cold water, taking something from a freezer or being in cold air, is the most likely trigger. For some people, emotional stress can trigger an episode.
• Warm your car. Run your car heater for a few minutes before driving in cold weather.
• Air conditioning can trigger attacks, set your air conditioner to a warmer temperature. Use insulated drinking glasses.

Please remember that the serious effects of Raynaud’s are rare, and that there are plenty of preventative measures you can take to reduce the severity of the symptoms. It’s time to get out the mittens and hats – and extra pairs of socks you were given for Christmas – and wear them with pride throughout February (and beyond) till the weather warms up for the fabulous British summer ahead!