Best Raynauds disease Doctors in Chennai

Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon or Raynaud's syndrome, is a medical condition where the blood vessels in the fingers or toes undergo spasms and narrowing, leading to cold, numb extremities. The aetiology of this disease is divided into primary (unknown cause) and secondary (caused by other health conditions) types. The outcomes of this disease can vary from mild discomfort to severe tissue damage in rare cases.

Chennai has seen its share of Raynaud's disease cases. The city's robust healthcare system ensures patients can access high-quality medical care. Apollo Hospitals Chennai boasts some of the best Raynaud's disease doctors who are well-versed in the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment protocols for this disease. They are among the best doctors for Raynaud's disease treatment in India.

Types/Stages of Raynaud's Disease

Raynaud's disease is generally classified into two main types by the rheumatologists:

• Primary Raynaud's Disease: The most common and usually less severe of the two types. It often occurs without an associated medical condition.

• Secondary Raynaud's Disease or Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Typically linked to an underlying condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Symptoms usually appear later in life and are more severe compared to primary.

Symptoms of Raynaud’s Disease

Symptoms observed by Raynaud's disease doctors commonly include:

• Cold fingers or toes

• Skin turning white then blue in affected areas

• Numbness or a prickly feeling upon warming or stress relief

• Redness, swelling and discomfort after warming up

• In severe cases, small painful sores or gangrene may occur

Tests to Diagnose Raynaud’s Disease

Doctors for Raynaud's disease treatment often recommend several diagnostic tests including:

• Cold Stimulation Test: A device is used to measure how quickly your fingers or toes regain normal temperature.

• Nail fold Capillaroscopy: Microscopic examination of a small drop of oil placed on your nail fold.

• Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: Detects abnormal proteins linked to autoimmune diseases in the blood.

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) tests: Measures inflammation levels in the body.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Raynaud's Disease at Apollo Hospitals Chennai

The primary aim of treating Raynaud's disease is symptom management and preventing attacks. At Apollo Hospitals Chennai, Raynaud's disease treatment doctors provide comprehensive care, tailored to each patient's needs. Treatment and surgical options include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Advising patients on avoiding cold temperatures, stress, and triggers like caffeine.

• Medications: Prescribing drugs like Alpha-1 blockers, vasodilators, or topical nitroglycerin ointments that help relax and widen blood vessels.

• Sympathectomy: A procedure recommended by Raynaud's disease surgeons or a neurosurgeon to cut or block nerves controlling the arteries in your hands and feet.

• Self-Care Guidelines: Emphasising maintaining a warm environment, managing stress, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol.