Raynaud’s Survival Tips

This year, I was finally diagnosed with Raynaud’s phenomenon. This is something that I’ve suspected I’ve had for a number of years, but have always had other diagnosis to fight for. This winter, my symptoms have been to worst so far, so I had a chat to my GP specifically about whether I might have Raynaud’s and she confirmed that I do. With this diagnosis and the worsening of my symptoms, I’ve been thinking about ways in which to help myself. I  sharing my Raynaud’s survival tips helps others who experience the condition.

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It’s a complete coincidence that I’ve chosen now to post this, as February is Raynaud’s Awareness month! How convenient.

Raynaud’s Survival Tips: Hand Warmers

Want to stay warm when everything around you is freezing cold? Hand warmers may be the answer! The same concept as an ice pack, heat warmers are portable and designed to keep things warm. I wouldn’t recommend using them to warm your hands up when they are cold. The sudden change in temperature can be a shock to the body and end up painful. These are great if you’re having to go out into the cold and want to keep warm.

I have a cute Sweet Snuggles Hand Warmer* set from Superdrug. They’re the perfect size to slip into the palms of my gloves to keep my hands warmer longer. The best part is that this cute duo are reusable!

Raynaud’s Survival Tips: Touch Screen Gloves

Keeping your extremities warm is one of the best ways to prevent Raynaud’s symptoms. But in the digital age we live in, this can be hard. If you’re tempted to forego wearing gloves so that you can use your phone, you need to invest in some touch screen gloves. Even if you wear gloves but have a tendency to take them off often to use your phone, it’s worth investing in some touch screen gloves. After all, if your fingers go numb, you won’t be able to use your phone!

If you can, avoid knitted gloves. The wind can get between the knit. I’ve found that fur lined material gloves are the warmest option.

Raynaud’s Survival Tips: Thermals

Thermals aren’t what they used to be. I remember my Mum insisting that she buy me and I take thermals when I went to America and Canada in the winter with my school’s Wind Band. Honestly? They looked like old lady underwear and, though I packed them, I never wore them.

Thankfully, thermals have come a long way from old lady long johns and vests. Now you can get thermal leggings, socks and gloves that are plain black and look like their standard counterparts. Thermal hats are also available too! Modern thermals look good and staying warm feel even better! I’d highly recommend getting some thermal socks if buying footwear a size bigger doesn’t appeal to you.

Raynaud’s Survival Tips: Buy Footwear A Size Bigger

This might sound strange, but buying footwear a size bigger (or half a size if this is an option) will allow you to wear multiple pairs of socks. Layering causes air to get trapped and this air keeps you warm. Perfect when toes and feet are commonly affected by Raynaud’s.

Raynaud’s Survival Tips: Wear Boots

Boots have been my saviour this year. At it’s worst, but Raynaud’s goes all the way up to my thighs. I suspect this is partly because my legs remain fairly inactive when using my wheelchair or scooter, which is every time I go out. Wearing a pair of calf length boots provides a buffer between my legs and the ice cold wind. It’s not much, but every little helps! My ankle boots haven’t had much wear at all this year, and when they have it’s been when I’m only going to be out in the cold for short periods of time. Shoes give much less warmth than boots, so I avoid these in the winter.

Do you or someone you love experience Raynaud’s phenomenon? What are your Raynaud’s survival tips?

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