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I would come home almost in tears, she tells SELF.
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What is Raynauds syndrome, and who gets it?
It looks pretty scary (and can hurt like hell), but is it serious?
Usually not: The vast majority ofcasesare whats called primary Raynauds which isnt linked to other illnesses.
Often, its the first symptom of these underlying issues, Dr. Sammut says.
This pop in of Raynauds is more likely to lead to serious complications like frostbite or gangrene.
Heres how to do it without turning your fingers and toes into ice blocks.
Keep an eye on the forecastand your patterns.
you might also simply move inside if you dont want to deal with bundling up, Katz says.
Stay warm all over.
Keeping your extremities toasty starts with your core.
This can exaggerate the spasms in your blood vessels.
Master the art of glove layering.
Layers are key on your hands, too.
(Oiselle Super Puff Mittensare a particular fave of runners with Raynauds.)
Brooks Shield Lobster Glove 2.0
Brooks
4.
Then add some extra heat.
Or you’re free to also buyglovesormittenswith heating components built in.
Keep your hands moving too.
Then, as she gets moving, she curls her fingers into a ball to trap heat.
Or you’re free to stuff them under your armpits for warmth.
Dont forget about your feet.
The same companies that made hand warmers also selltoe warmersand heated insoles, and some skiers use heatedsocksorski boots.
Thick or insulated shoes and boots help too, if theyre possible for your activity, Dr. Tuladhar says.
HotHands Toe Warmers
Weston Rechargeable Heated Socks
7.
Take a few deep breaths.
In addition to cold temperatures, stress can trigger a Raynauds attack.
Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help, Dr. Kahaleh says.
That just cools your core, and that can trigger Raynauds, Dr. Tuladhar says.
Instead, keep your water at room temperature or even warmer.
Give your body time to thaw.
To prevent this, cool down gradually, Dr. Tuladhar recommends.
For instance, instead of suddenly stopping your run, do some brisk walking before kicking off your sneakers.
Maybe hold off on this post-workout tool.
To minimize risk, avoid them during a Raynauds attack or soon after coming in from the cold.
Keep your hands warm and dry when you use them, and dont hold them too tightly.
If Raynauds is making your life miserable despite all your efforts, ask your doctor about medication.
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