Raynaud’s is a condition that affects the blood supply, usually to the fingers and toes, but in some cases the blood supply to the ears and nose can be interrupted.  During an attack they first become white and dead-looking; they may turn blue and finally bright red.  There may be considerable pain, numbness or tingling.  However, having numb fingers, feeling constantly cold or having chilblains does not necessarily mean that you have Raynaud’s.

Raynaud’s most commonly affects young women and teenage girls, but it can also occur in men, children and older people.  It is often made worse by the exposure to cold weather.  Raynaud’s can be treated and the effects minimised through a range of options from keeping warm to complimentary therapies and drugs.

Scleroderma is an uncommon, chronic disease that affects the connective tissues that surround the joints, blood vessels and internal organs beneath the affected area of skin.  There is excessive thickening of tissues, the skin is hard and loses the ability to stretch.  The fingertips are thickened and the skin around the mouth tightens up.  Women are affected more often than men and the disease usually starts between the ages of 25 and 50. It is only occasionally seen in children and the elderly.

For more information visit: http://www.raynauds.org.uk/

Ref:   NHSR11 – P07