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Symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon

Raynaud's disease is most common in young women and usually affects both hands. The toes are less often affected. In cold conditions, there is tingling, burning and numbness in the affected parts and the fingers are very pale from lack of blood.

As a slow flow of blood returns and oxygen is withdrawn from it, the characteristic purplish colour of deoxygenated blood (cyanosis) is seen. When the affected parts are warmed and the spasm of the blood vessels fades, the vessels open widely, allowing a flush of fresh blood to pass. In this stage, the fingers or toes become red.

• RabiesRadiationRadiotherapyRaynaud's phenomenonRectal examinationRed blood countReiter's syndromeRelapsing feverRenin testRepetitive strain injuryRespiratory distress syndromeRespiratory tract infectionRespite careRestless leg syndromeRestricted growthRetinal detachmentReye's syndromeRhesus factor diseaseRheumatic feverRheumatoid arthritisRhinitisRicketsRingwormRisks and benefits of treatmentRoot canal treatmentRosaceaRoundwormRubella

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