Conditions & RSI
Reynaud's Phenomenon or Disease
What is Raynaud's Disease?
Raynaud's Disease is a condition in which the blood supply to the extremities is interrupted. Where occupational factors play a part, this usually means a constriction of the blood vessels in the hand leading to the symptoms in the fingers and thumb described below. It is frequently considered a condition of the nervous system due to involvement of the nerves controlling the arteries to the fingers.
The Symptoms
During an attack the fingers become deeply blue or white and blue. Sometimes the fingers perspire. The vessels in the hand constrict until circulation ceases and the fingers deform. Sometimes gangrene will set in. It is usually painful and may be accompanied by a tingling feeling.
The Causes
It is not fully understood why some people develop this condition and others do not. The nerves in the hand can shut off the blood supply in response to a variety of situations. An outbreak is usually precipitated by infection, fatigue or nervous exhaustion, particularly in cold working conditions. It is a disease that may remain dormant for years and come back suddenly.
Non-occupational forms are much more likely to occur in women. At work it can occur as a result of using vibrating machinery, when it is called Vibration White Finger. This condition is very persistent and is a recognised industrial injury (A11) for a range of occupations using hand-held percussive or vibrating tools.
The Doctor's Examination
In the UK, GPs receive little training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Ideally your doctor will refer you to a specialist who has taken an interest in RSI-type conditions, usually a rheumatologist or neurologist. For a proper diagnosis of Raynaud's Disease it usually has to be in existence for at least two years. Blood tests to check the cell count and an examination of the blood vessels under the finger nails are used to check for certain forms of the disease. Treatment
There are a number of drugs which work by making the blood vessels wider, but they affect the general circulation and also cause flushing, headaches or dizziness. If the condition is work-related the nerve damage will not be rectified by drugs. It may be necessary to avoid tasks involving repetitive movements of the fingers or holding vibrating machinery.
Complementary and dietary therapies have proved helpful in some cases. These include exercise and a diet rich in salad, along with vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin D, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid which aid in the adrenal's capability to handle stress. Combinations of ginger, goldenseal and possibly cayenne pepper have sometimes eased the worst of the symptoms.
Smoking restricts the circulation so if you have this problem, you should avoid tobacco.
Conditions & RSI
Conditions
Tendon Related Disorders
Tendinitis
Tenosynovtis
Epicondylitis
De Quervain's Disease
Dupuytren's Contracture
Trigger Finger
Gangolian Cyst
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Nerve Related Disorders
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Guyon Canal Syndrome
Pronator Teres Syndrome
Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Cervical Syndrome
Muscle Related Disorders
Tension Neck Syndrome
Muscle Sprain & Strain
Myalgia & Myositis
Writers Cramp
Circulatory Disorders
Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome
Reynauds Phenomenon or Disease
Vibration White Finger
Bursa Related Disorders
Bursitis
Non Specific Pain
Double Crush Syndrome
Fact Sheets
What is RSI - Treatment & Managing RSI - Advice & Research - RSI Hazards - Minimising Risks