Raynaud's Syndrome: Anyone want to talk about Raynaud’s?

I want to jump out of bed, it’s 2:15 am PST and celebrate. I am 79. I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematous [SLE]. First diagnosed 8+ years ago and have I experienced and seen ADVANCES in medicine, computers, and life in general. Heated gloves being the latest for me to address my Raynaud Syndrome.

Tomorrow I am taking my Annual Medicare Physical. I will discuss the process to leave my body for medical advancement. I am so fortunate to have lived this long and have the opportunity to use the services of THE MAYO CLINIC. You see my partner of 30 years is the granddaughter of Dr. Braasch the first non-Mayo to join the Mayo Brothers. I have no doubt he is smiling. 😊

Hi. I was recently diagnosed with Raynaud’s. I could have had it for decades and managed my symptoms well or it began recently at about age 45 (apparently 45 is late for onset of Raynaud’s primary or secondary)- I’ve had an issue with cold hands and feet all of my life. My doc found a slight elevation of something on one of my lab tests, so no conclusions yet.

I appreciate the many warnings in this chat about the dangers of warming hands and feet too quickly since I feel hectic when my fingers and toes turn white and want to heat them immediately. Gradual warming is always recommended for frostbite.

@maria48 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! On this site we all try to help one another through our own experiences.. I’m sure the other members will jump into the discussion and answer any questions you might have. Warming your hands and feet has to be a priority!! What is your best tip for treating cold hands and feet?

Please make that DR STENCHFIELD

Thanks for your reply! I don't notice my cold feet too much until I go to bed at night, that's when my cold feet actually hurt, and they will keep me from falling asleep. If my feet were already warm when I got into bed, thick socks (and sometimes leg warmers) will prevent that burning sensation, but if they're already cold I warm one foot at a time by tucking my toes under my other leg. Once I have one foot warm, I switch and warm up the other foot. It takes a lot longer than a heating pad, but chiblains aren't worth it! My best advice, don't let your feet get cold. My hands don't bother me as much anymore, but they're pretty forgiving if I run them under lukewarm water and then warmer water after they've warmed up a bit, and I have warmed them under my arms too.

I am not sure about where to post this follow up but I am going to take a shot with Colleen. My bet is she may be retired. If she is it’s well deserved.

I received the battery powered gloves I mentioned in my prior correspondence. My sense is I will use the gloves I already have.

Everyone with Raynaud Syndrome I wish you the best for this coming year.

Take good care.