What is the Definition of Raynauds Phenomenon?
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a disorder of small blood vessels that respond excessively to stimuli which causes poor blood flow, usually in the fingers. When this condition occurs by itself, it is called Raynaud’s disease, or Primary Raynaud’s phenomenon. When it occurs along with other diseases, such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, Sjogren’s syndrome, or mixed connective tissue disease, it is called Secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. top ^ Description of Raynaud’s Phenomenon During an attack of Raynaud’s, the arteries contract briefly, limiting blood flow. This is called vasospasm. Deprived of the blood’s oxygen, the skin first turns white, then blue. The skin turns red as the arteries relax and blood flows again.
