Treatment of Raynaud's syndrome: lifestyle changes

The treatment is based on regimental measures, or a non-pharmacological approach.

Important measures include:

• lifestyle changes, overall reduction of cardiovascular risk factors
• avoid triggers such as cold or stress
• do not smoke
• appropriate clothing and protection from the cold, cap, scarf, socks, shoes, multiple layers of clothing, gloves, coat and generally comfortable and airy clothing, avoid tight and clothing made of artificial fibre
• if the nose is affected, wear a face mask or a scarf in cold weather
• before driving in a car in the cold season, let the car warm up
• indoors air-conditioning during the summer - protection from the direct effects of the cold
• under workload - change of job classification, work, reduction of vibrations
• be physically active and avoid a sedentary lifestyle
• drink lots of fluid
• vitamins (C, E), minerals (magnesium, zinc) and supplements to improve blood circulation (ginkgo, chili, flavonoids, ginger, cinnamon)
• green tea, tea
• suitable diet, vegetables, fruits, fibre
• healthy fats, less fatty foods and salt
• cold water therapy, or warm baths, not too hot, be careful with hot glasses
• creams and gels
• massages, acupuncture
• stress reduction, plenty of rest, sleep, relaxation techniques, biofeedback
• limit alcohol consumption
• careful with medications, you should consult your GP

In the case of a more complex course when the quality of life is severely affected, it is also possible touse special supplemental medications, for example sedatives or cardiovascular drugs, such as calcium channel blockers, alpha blockers, ACE inhibitors and others.

In some cases, a nerve block may be used. It is performed surgically or by injection. After this procedure, the patient will be symptom-free for about 1 or 2 years.

In the secondary type, timely and adequate treatment of the primary cause and underlying disease is important. It is possible to expect an improvement of this symptom as well.

If the disease is complicated by skin damage, antibiotics are recommended to prevent secondary inflammation. In case of cell death or necrosis, the necrotic tissue is either surgically removed or amputated.