Cold hypersensitivity and the whitening-bruising of the fingers, namely Raynaud’s phenomenon, is an important finding and it would be right for everyone with Raynaud’s to seek the opinion of a rheumatologist. However, in some cases, the presence of Raynaud is much more important and risky.
If there is another disease or factor that causes Raynaud’s Phenomenon, it is called “Secondary Raynaud’s Phenomenon”. In these cases, complications due to Raynaud’s are more severe and sometimes the treatment of both Raynaud’s and the disease that causes it can create difficulties.
In whom should Secondary Raynaud’s Phenomenon be considered and a Rheumatologist opinion should be taken?
1. If it occurs after the age of 40
2. If the attacks are asymmetrical on the fingers
3. If there are signs such as wounds on the fingertip, gangrene on the finger, indicating that the blood does not go to that area enough
4. If findings suggestive of other rheumatic diseases such as sun allergy, dry mouth and eyes, joint pain and swelling are accompanied
5. If the attacks are not limited to the fingertips, the findings are also seen in the hands, feet, arms and legs
6. If specific rheumatic tests are positive
