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Prevent Raynaud's Attacks

Ways to prevent Raynaud's attacks include keeping warm by wearing more layers of clothing during cold weather, not smoking to improve circulation, and controlling stress by recognizing and avoiding stressful situations. Exercise can also help minimize attacks by improving your overall well-being. You can prevent Raynaud's attacks by taking full control of your health and by making smart lifestyle choices.

How to Prevent Raynaud's Attacks

There are things that a person with Raynaud's phenomenon can do to minimize or prevent Raynaud's attacks from occurring. Suggestions include:
 
  • Keep warm. Avoid chilling the extremities as well as the rest of the body.
     
  • Always wear gloves and thick socks when you go outside during cold weather. You may want to purchase special gloves and socks that have battery-powered warmers inside them.
     
  • Wear a hat in cold weather that covers your ears, or wear earmuffs.
     
  • Don't smoke. Smoking impairs your circulation. The nicotine in cigarettes can also cause your skin temperature to drop, which could bring on an attack.
     
  • Recognize that air conditioning can trigger an episode. Don't turn it up too high, and bring along something to keep you warm if you are going to be in a highly air-conditioned room for a long time, such as a movie theater.
     
  • If you're sensitive to cold, use insulated drinking glasses and wear gloves before putting your hands inside the freezer compartment at home or at your grocery store.
     
  • Control stress. Recognizing and avoiding stressful situations may help control the number and severity of attacks.
     
  • Get regular exercise. Exercise is good for circulation and may help prevent attacks. Check with your doctor before you begin exercising.
     

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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