Your podiatrists in Chicago, IL, can help if you have Raynaud’s syndrome.
Raynaud’s syndrome, also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon, is a condition that causes extremities to feel cold and numb. Toes and fingers are commonly affected. The condition causes the smaller arteries which supply blood to your skin to narrow, which squeezes off blood flow to extremities.
Raynaud’s syndrome can be uncomfortable, but fortunately, your podiatrists can help. Dr. Marc Feder, Dr. Jason Kalk, and Dr. Jacob Richey of Affiliated Podiatrists in Chicago, IL, offer comprehensive foot and ankle care services, including treatment for Raynaud’s syndrome.
You may have Raynaud’s syndrome if you experience:
- Chronic cold toes or fingers
- Skin color changes when exposed to cold
- Prickly, stinging pain or numbness when you warm the cold area
- Skin turning white, then blue, and feeling cold and numb
- Skin turning red and throbbing or tingling when you warm the area
There are two types of Raynaud’s syndrome:
Primary Raynaud’s is the most common form. It isn’t associated with an underlying medical condition and it can resolve without treatment.
Secondary Raynaud’s, which is the result of an underlying medical condition and it can be more serious. This form of Raynaud’s syndrome can be caused by connective tissue diseases such as lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. Arterial diseases, carpal tunnel, or injuries can also cause secondary Raynaud’s.
You can try a few simple tricks to prevent Raynaud’s symptoms, including:
- Wearing warm clothing when you are outside, including two layers of mittens or gloves, and warm socks.
- Use hand warmers when you are outside
- Warm up your car before you drive out into cold weather
- Wear mittens and socks when you go to bed in winter
- Place your air conditioner on a warmer setting
For severe Raynaud’s symptoms, it’s best to see your podiatrist. Professional treatments for Raynaud’s syndrome include:
- Medication therapy, including calcium channel blockers and vasodilators to open up small blood vessels and increase blood flow
- Injections, including local anesthetics or Botox to block nerve action relating to blood vessels
- Surgical intervention to the nerves causing the narrowing of blood vessels in your skin
You don’t have to suffer from Raynaud’s syndrome when help is just a phone call away. To learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of Raynaud’s syndrome, call Dr. Feder, Dr. Kalk, and Dr. Richey of Affiliated Podiatrists in Chicago, IL. You can reach them at (773) 631-2079 today!