Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Causes

What causes Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Raynaud’s phenomenon is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. In an autoimmune disease, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. If the underlying cause of the symptoms is unknown, the condition is called Raynaud’s disease or primary Raynaud’s.

Known underlying diseases and disorders that can cause Raynaud’s phenomenon include certain autoimmune disorders, such as:

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Scleroderma

• Systemic lupus erythematosus

• Certain factors can trigger symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon. Triggers include:

• Exposure to cold air

• Exposure to cold water

• Stress

What are the risk factors for Raynaud’s phenomenon?

A number of factors are thought to increase your chances of developing Raynaud’s phenomenon. People at risk for Raynaud’s phenomenon include women between the ages of 15 and 40 years of age and people with underlying diseases or behaviors that cause damage or narrowing of the blood vessels. These include:

• Diabetes

• High cholesterol and atherosclerosis

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Medications that cause constriction of the blood vessels including beta blockers, certain migraine medications, cold and allergy drugs, birth control pills, and certain cancer drugs

• Smoking

Reducing your risk of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Not all people with risk factors will develop Raynaud’s phenomenon, but you can lower your risk of developing Raynaud’s phenomenon by:

• Not smoking

• Notifying your health care provider promptly of side effects of medications, such as a change in skin coloring and pain or numbness of the fingers and toes  

• Seeking regular medical care and following your treatment plan for high cholesterol,  atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and other medical conditions