Raynaud’s disease
Raynaud’s syndrome causes spasms in small blood vessels in your fingers and toes. This limits blood flow and leads to symptoms like skin color changes, cold skin and a pins and needles sensation. Common triggers of Raynaud’s attacks include cold weather and stress. Many people have mild symptoms that they can manage through lifestyle changes.
How does Raynaud’s syndrome affect my body?
During a Raynaud’s attack, the arterioles and capillaries in your fingers and toes tighten more than they should. As a result, your skin in the affected area turns white and then blue. This color change happens because your blood lacks oxygen. Your skin may also feel cold or numb. As your blood vessels relax and open up again, your skin may look red or feel tingly. An attack usually lasts around 15 minutes.
Primary Raynaud’s syndrome
Primary Raynaud’s syndrome isn’t serious and doesn’t damage your blood vessels. It may disrupt some of your daily activities, but it’s not dangerous.
Secondary Raynaud’s syndrome
Secondary Raynaud’s syndrome can be more serious. It may lead to skin ulcers and, rarely, tissue death (gangrene). It may also impact your quality of life. The underlying disease causing it may be severe in and of itself.
Who treats Raynaud’s syndrome?
You may receive care from healthcare providers in different specialties. That’s because Raynaud’s syndrome can affect your body in many ways. It can also result from a wide range of medical conditions.
Raynaud’s disease acupuncture treatment
Acupuncture is known for its ability to improve blood flow and circulation, as well as for reducing pain, discomfort and inflammation. Acupuncture may benefit Raynaud’s in the following ways : Microcirculation, Regulating Endothelium-derived Vasoconstrictors and Vasodilators; Reducing inflammation; Reduce Sensitivity to Pain.