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Causes of Raynaud's phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon occurs in any form of artery disease that causes narrowing, especially atherosclerosis or Buerger's disease (thromboangiitis obliterans). It also occurs when there is any cause of obstruction to blood flow, such as embolism, thrombosis or diabetic arterial disease (see Diabetes).

Small arteries can also be obstructed in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, and the phenomenon can also result from repeated vibration or physical trauma to the fingers. It sometimes affects musicians, typists or those using vibrating power tools or pneumatic drills.

It may also be caused by drugs such as ergotamine, methysergide or beta blockers, which narrow arteries.

Another cause is a toxic industrial agent such as polyvinyl chloride.

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