We added all new FAQs to this page including:

What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?: A new FAQ was added describing Raynaud’s phenomenon (also called Raynaud’s disorder or Raynaud’s Syndrome). This disorder causes blood vessels in the extremities to inappropriately constrict in response to stress or cold temperatures.  The differences between the different types of Raynaud’s were also discussed. Since secondary Raynaud’s is caused by the presence of another underlying (generally autoimmune) condition, distinguishing between primary and secondary Raynaud’s is important to determine the appropriate treatments.   What are the main signs and symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon?: A new FAQ was added that discusses the signs and symptoms of Raynaud’s attacks (also called episodes), and the primary areas of the body that are affected.

How is Raynaud’s phenomenon diagnosed?: A new FAQ was added that discusses diagnostic considerations that health care providers use when Raynaud’s is suspected. Factors health care providers may consider when distinguishing primary vs. secondary Raynaud’s were also noted, including nailfold capillary microscopy (NCM). NCM is a procedure that allows physicians to see changes in the structure of small blood vessels and is an important tool for distinguishing between primary and secondary Raynaud’s.   What are some of the main medical treatments for Raynaud’s?: A new FAQ was added to discuss the main medical treatments for Raynaud’s, which typically are conservative and aimed at limiting or avoiding the conditions that instigate attacks. Differences in treatment strategies for primary vs. secondary Raynaud’s were also discussed, as well as some of the common pharmaceutical treatments.

Have any supplements been studied for Raynaud’s phenomenon?: A new FAQ  was added discussing supplements that have been studied for treating Raynaud’s. Studies have tended to be less rigorous, smaller-scale pilot trials, resulting in some uncertainty in the results.   How could diet affect Raynaud’s phenomenon?: A new FAQ was added discussing diet interventions for Raynaud’s. Although there have not been many studies (or any) testing diet interventions for Raynaud’s some investigators have speculated that foods with circulation-promoting properties may be helpful.   Are there any other treatments for Raynaud’s phenomenon?: A new FAQ was added discussing alternative, non-pharmaceutical treatments for Raynaud’s. Theoretically, interventions that affect the smooth muscle tissue regulating blood vessel narrowing (vasoconstriction) and widening (vasodilation) could help to recalibrate the signaling mechanisms that trigger inappropriate vasoconstriction in people with Raynaud’s, as suggested in a study in the early 1980s testing the effect of finger immersion in warm water followed by cold exposure in people with Raynaud’s.   What causes Raynaud’s phenomenon?: An FAQ was added discussing the mechanisms that trigger Raynaud’s attacks. Raynaud’s is an over-reaction of the sympathetic nervous system, which causes blood vessels in the extremities (fingers and toes but sometimes other parts of the body as well) to constrict inappropriately, cutting off blood flow and leading to low oxygen levels in the affected digits and the characteristic color-change. 

We added three randomized controlled trials and one meta-analysis to the Examine Database.