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What is Raynaud’s Syndrome?

Raynaud’s Syndrome or Raynaud’s Phenomenon is a rare condition in which cold temperatures temporarily restrict blood flow to the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Researchers still don’t know why those with Raynaud’s are particularly sensitive to the cold, but they have observed that the condition is more common among women and those who live in colder climates. During an attack, the fingers, toes, ears, and nose may appear white or even blue in color and will feel very cold.

Before you go forward with any Raynaud’s Syndrome natural remedies, make sure that you consult with your healthcare professional to see what is the best option for you. Consider other options as well. There are a few prescription medications that you can take and a few surgical procedures that are effective.

Raynaud’s Syndrome natural remedies

There is very little scientific evidence supporting natural remedies for Raynaud’s Syndrome, however, you can try them out to see if they work for you!

Biofeedback

From raynauds.org: “Biofeedback has been shown to be highly effective in treating Raynaud’s Disease. Research by members of the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback demonstrates that thermal biofeedback is especially effective in the treatment of primary Raynaud’s Disease, with some reports indicating that 80-90% of patients report improved circulation and a reduced frequency of symptoms.”

Nutritional supplements

Supplements that promote circulation can help increase blood flow to the affected areas. L-arginine Plus is a nitric oxide booster that dilates the blood vessels and allows for increased blood flow and circulation.

Gingko biloba

Some say that taking the herbal supplement gingko biloba can help with the number of Raynaud’s attacks. Those who take antidepressants should not use gingko biloba.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been thought to improve circulation throughout your whole body and may help with Raynaud’s syndrome. One important note is that acupuncture works best in those who believe that it is going to work.

Fish oil

Some evidence shows that taking fish oil can improve tolerance to cold. Those with Raynaud’s Syndrome may benefit from less attacks at a higher resistance to cold temperatures.

Avoid smoke

Smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke lowers your skin temperature by constricting the blood vessels. This could lead to an attack.

Exercise

Exercise can increase circulation, but make sure that you exercise in comfortable temperatures.

Control stress

Stress is a major factor in Raynaud’s attacks. Many people can feel when an attack is going to happen and try to calm themselves down to avoid it. If you know that your attacks are linked to stress, try to limit the stress that you’re under.

Avoid rapidly changing temperature

Going from hot to cold environments very quickly can cause attacks. Limit your air conditioning use if it’s hot outside, and make sure that you’re bundled up before you go outside into the cold.

What should I do during an attack?

Warm the affected part of your body gently and quickly.

  • Move to a warmer area
  • Wiggle your fingers and toes
  • Put hands under armpits or between thighs
  • Run warm water over the affected area
  • Massage affected area
  • Get out of any stressful situations