Raynaud's phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon can usually be diagnosed after an examination of your symptoms and some blood tests.
Your GP may place your hands in cold water or cool air to see if you show symptoms of Raynauds.
Further testing is usually recommended to find out whether you have primary or secondary Raynauds.
Secondary Raynauds may require more treatment and, in some cases, referral to a specialist.
Secondary Raynauds may be suspected if:
Your GP may also check the tiny blood vessels, known as capillaries, found where your nail meets the finger. These capillaries are oftenlarger in people with secondary Raynauds, and look like red pen marks.
Your GP may also refer you for Blood tests to check for other health conditionsthat could be causing your symptoms. These tests may include:
If you've been diagnosed with Raynauds, Scleroderma & Raynaud's UK (SRUK) may be helpful.
It is the UKs leading charity for people affected by the condition.
Raynauds phenomenon is a common condition that affects the blood supply to certain parts of the body usually the fingers and toes.
Raynaud's phenomenon is the result of over-sensitive blood vessels in the extremities of our body. In many cases, no cause is identified.
Raynaud's phenomenon can usually be diagnosed after an examination of your symptoms and some blood tests.
You can usually treat Raynaud's phenomenon yourself, although medication is sometimes necessary.
People with Raynaud's phenomenon have an increased risk of developing other problems, such as scleroderma.