While freezing temperatures are the most common trigger, Raynaud’s is surprisingly sensitive. An attack can be sparked by:
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Air Conditioning: Walking into a highly cooled room.
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The Freezer Aisle: Simply reaching for a bag of frozen peas.
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Emotional Stress: Anxiety or a sudden fright causes the body to release adrenaline, which naturally constricts blood vessels.
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Vibrating Tools: Long-term use of jackhammers or heavy machinery can damage blood vessels over time.
Primary vs. Secondary Raynaud’s
Experts divide the condition into two categories to determine how serious it is:
Type |
Description |
Primary Raynaud’s |
The most common form. It isn’t caused by an underlying medical condition. It’s annoying and uncomfortable but generally not dangerous. |
Secondary Raynaud’s |
Caused by an underlying health problem, often autoimmune or connective tissue diseases like Lupus, Scleroderma, or Rheumatoid Arthritis. This version tends to be more severe. |
Managing the “Deep Freeze”
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