By Anne Marie Allen Reflexologist and Massage Therapist.

If you’re not sure what Raynaud’s Disease is, or if you’re suffering with the symptoms this blog will assist your understanding of it and give you 10 top self-help tips to manage the condition.

So what is Raynaud’s Disease?

Raynaud’s disease is a condition in which the arteries that supply certain parts of the body go into sudden, temporary spasm causing an intermittent narrowing of the arteries. This results in blood flow being restricted to the affected part of the body. Often this is the fingers or toes but the nose, ears and nipples can also be affected.

What does it feel like? Will I see a physical change?

The narrowing of the arteries can cause the fingers or the affected body part to change colour from white to blue and then red when the blood is able to return this can cause:

– numbness

– pain, this can either be mild pain or excruciating throbbing

– pins and needles

– burning sensation

– tingling

An attack can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, although it’s not a life threatening condition it can be very painful and make using the affected body part difficult.

So what causes it?

In most cases of Raynaud’s, there is no known cause and this is known as primary Raynaud’s. It can however be caused by:

– another condition such as an auto immune disease like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

– an infection

– side effect of a medicine that’s being taken

– cancer

– illegal drugs

– injury

– overuse

– smoking

– vibration white finger

– emotional stress

So what can I do?

If your Raynaud’s is caused by something, it’s known as secondary Raynaud’s and treating the underlying condition or changing your medication may help, your GP will be able to advise you on this.

The good news is there are several things you can do to help yourself!

1. Keep warm, layer up and wear gloves and warm foot wear.

2. Stop smoking – Sally Race Acorns hypnotherapist can help you with this contact Sally for a free consultation!

3. Add Turmeric into your diet, turmeric helps to keep your arteries from being blocked.

4. Regular exercise helps to improve circulation.

5. Reflexology, massage and aromatherapy can all help with Raynauds contact me, Anne Marie to book an appointment!

6. Diet – our nutritional therapist Helen can advise you on dietary changes you can make which could help you manage your Raynaud’s contact Helen for a free consultation.

7. Reduce caffeine intake.

8. Green tea is rich in anti oxidants and help to relax the arteries and improves circulation.

9. Avoid direct contact with cold objects.

10. Try to avoid stressful situations as stress can trigger attacks. Taking up meditation or yoga can help you to manage and lower your stress levels – there are regular Yoga classes as well as Mark Clutton’s Mindfulness courses taking place in Acorn’s studio to find out more contact the Acorn Natural Health Centre.

You can contact the Anne Marie, Sally or Helen at Acorn Natural Health Centre on 01773 687 349 and you can find us at 17a Market Place, Heanor, Derby DE75 7AA.