What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Primary Raynaud’s Disease
• Primary Raynaud’s Phenomenon
• Primary Raynaud’s Syndrome

What is Primary Raynaud Phenomenon? (Definition/Background Information)

• Raynaud phenomenon is a condition wherein there is abnormal constriction of the arteries causing episodes of decreased blood flow in the body. The condition usually affects the extremities, especially the hands/fingers. The mechanism of development of Raynaud phenomenon is not well-understood
• Primary Raynaud Phenomenon is a type of Raynaud phenomenon in which the origin of the condition is unknown. This means that it is not known to be caused by any underlying disorder, trauma, or medication
• The condition can present pale (whitish) areas on the fingers and hands, which then turn bluish, and subsequently red, due to blood flowing to the skin area. This can result in burning sensation, inflammation, and pain 
• Examination of the presenting symptoms may be sufficient to diagnose Primary Raynaud Phenomenon. The treatment measures, if necessary, may include the use of medication, stress therapy, and avoidance of cold conditions
• However, Primary Raynaud Phenomenon is generally mild and tends to resolve on its own, and the prognosis is typically excellent in many individuals

Who gets Primary Raynaud Phenomenon? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Primary Raynaud Phenomenon is more common in older children and young adults (15-30 years age range), although individuals of any age group are at risk
• Generally, females (especially young adult women) are affected more than males
• No racial or ethnic group predilection is observed and the condition is observed worldwide

What are the Risk Factors for Primary Raynaud Phenomenon? (Predisposing Factors)

• No risk factors have been presently identified for Primary Raynaud Phenomenon. However, in some individuals, the condition can run in families

The following factors may worsen the symptoms of Raynaud phenomenon:

• Exposure to cold may aggravate the condition
• Smoking; caffeinated drinks
• Estrogen therapy

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Primary Raynaud Phenomenon? (Etiology)

• Primary Raynaud Phenomenon is a benign condition of unknown cause that occurs due to the narrowing of arteries, resulting in decreased blood flow to the fingers and toes
• It is observed that the symptoms get better during pregnancy; hence, some researchers believe that hormonal influence may play a role in the development of Raynaud phenomenon

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Primary Raynaud Phenomenon?

The signs and symptoms of Primary Raynaud Phenomenon may vary from one individual to another. It may also be mild or severe. The signs and symptoms may include:

• Initially, there is decrease in blood flow resulting in pale areas, which may be associated with pain or numbness
• Bluish to purple discoloration may be observed from a lack of oxygen to the region/skin
• Subsequently, the blood vessels dilate in the affected region resulting in increased blood flow causing redness, burning sensation, pain, tingling sensation, and swelling
• Usually such episodes are triggered by exposure to cold, and such episodes can last from several minutes to several hours
• The condition usually affects the fingers, hands, feet, and toes. Occasionally, it can affect parts of the face such as the ears, lips, and nose
• Occasionally, it can affect in the nipples in a breastfeeding mother, resulting in a very painful condition
• Some individuals may have migraine headaches and chest pain

How is Primary Raynaud Phenomenon Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Raynaud phenomenon is arrived at after ruling-out conditions that cause similar symptoms. If an underlying cause is determined, then it is known as secondary Raynaud Phenomenon. If the cause cannot be determined, then it is called Primary Raynaud Phenomenon.

Primary Raynaud Phenomenon may be diagnosed using the following tests and exams:

• Complete physical examination with comprehensive evaluation of medical history
• Assessment of the signs and symptoms
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation

Skin biopsy is usually not necessary, in many cases; however, if required a skin biopsy may be undertaken. Also, in a majority of individuals, no elaborate testing is needed, apart from examination of the clinical signs and symptoms.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Primary Raynaud Phenomenon?

The following complications may be noted from Primary Raynaud Phenomenon:

• Cosmetic issues resulting in emotional stress
• Secondary bacterial and fungal infection due to scratching, bleeding, and ulceration

How is Primary Raynaud Phenomenon Treated?

The following measures may be considered in treating Primary Raynaud Phenomenon:

• Avoidance of cold conditions and cold weather; wearing protective (warm) clothing
• Avoiding the triggers causing the condition
• Psychological counseling for stress; cognitive behavioral therapy including the use of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, if necessary
• Medication to block the abnormal narrowing of the blood vessels
• In rare cases, if the symptoms are severe, a surgical procedure called sympathectomy can be performed. It is important to note that this surgery is not performed in a vast majority of individuals
• In some severe cases, medications to decrease vasoconstriction may be administered
• Symptomatic and supportive therapy, as necessary

In many individuals, no treatment may be necessary for Primary Raynaud Phenomenon, since the condition may be mild and tends to be self-limiting.

How can Primary Raynaud Phenomenon be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a method of preventing Primary Raynaud Phenomenon. However, the following measures may be considered to help lower one’s risk for the condition:

• Avoiding exposure to cold weather and cold temperatures; use protective and warm clothing
• Managing stress, modifying certain lifestyle factors such as avoiding smoking
• Stopping or avoiding activities that trigger the condition

What is the Prognosis of Primary Raynaud Phenomenon? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of primary Raynaud Phenomenon is usually good, since it is usually mild in many individuals. Moreover, the condition is known to resolve by its own in some cases.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Primary Raynaud Phenomenon:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vein-and-vascular-center/