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Raynaud’s Disease: A Podiatrist’s Perspective

October is Raynaud’s Awareness Month, a time to highlight this often misunderstood circulatory condition. Raynaud’s disease affects the blood vessels in the extremities, causing them to narrow in response to cold temperatures or emotional stress.

For this post, New England Podiatry wants to equip you with the right information so you know how to spot Raynaud’s symptoms, and we’ll cover some management methods, too.

Understanding Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s occurs when blood vessels in the fingers and toes constrict, reducing blood flow.

  • This can cause the affected areas to become cold, numb, and pale. In severe cases, the fingers or toes may even turn blue.
  • Raynaud’s can also lead to pain, tingling, or throbbing in the affected areas.

The condition is uncomfortable and, in some cases, may interfere with daily activities. As podiatrists, we often seepatients with Raynaud’s experiencing symptoms in their feet and toes.

Risk Factors and Symptoms

Several factors can increase the risk of developing Raynaud’s disease, including:

  • Cold temperatures: Exposure to cold weather can trigger symptoms.
  • Emotional stress: Anxiety, anger, or other emotional factors can constrict blood vessels.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Conditions such as autoimmune diseases and connective tissue disorders can increase the risk.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A podiatrist can diagnose the condition based on your symptoms and a physical examination. While there’s no cure for Raynaud’s disease, several strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Treatment options may include:

  • Lifestyle modifications: Keeping warm, avoiding cold temperatures, and managing stress can help reduce symptoms.
  • Medications: In some cases, medications can help improve blood flow and reduce the frequency of attacks.
  • Vasodilators: These medications can help relax the blood vessels and improve circulation.

By understanding the underlying causes and symptoms of Raynaud’s disease, podiatrists can provide valuable advice and treatment options. If you’re affected, we can help!

At New England Podiatry AssociatesDr. Ronald EtskovitzDr. Raymond Murano IIIDr. Catherine JacobsDr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment today.

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blog Raynaud's

Protecting Your Skin When You Have Raynaud’s

Have you heard about Raynaud’s? A French physician named Maurice Raynaud first recognized the condition in 1862. This month, the New England Podiatry Associates are celebrating Raynaud’s Awareness Month for a condition that impacts 5-10 percent of Americans, according to the Raynaud’s Association. The condition causes the blood flow to be interrupted to different parts of the body. Our toes are an example. A Raynaud’s attack is usually in response to cold weather or stress.

How can you care for your skin?

Layer up

Protecting your skin from cold temperatures is one of the best ways to avoid an attack. Wear layers on cold days. If you live in a warmer climate, use caution with air conditioners, too. We recommend using insulated drinking cups to keep your hands from handling direct cold temperatures.

Warm-up quickly

Feeling cold? Place your hands under warm water to boost the temperature. Be careful not to choose hot water, which can be dangerous. Swinging arms in a windmill motion is another helpful and fun way to warm up if you’re feeling cold. Get creative while learning to manage this condition.

Use feet warmers

Knowledge is power. If you know that your feet are at risk of staying cold, bring feet warmers along. These handy accessories can help you stay steps ahead of an attack. Shop at stores that specialize in outdoor activities or ask your doctor about best practices. Always read the directions before using warmers near your body.

At New England Podiatry AssociatesDr. Michael HassDr. Alan GreenDr. Stephen TubridyDr. Ronald EtskovitzDr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, and Dr. Zachary Sax treat various conditions such as sports injuriesfoot and ankle painpediatric foot careingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.