Description of Condition:
Raynaud's Syndrome or Phenomenon is
a condition where a person experiences episodes of decreased effective
blood flow to the extremities, most significantly fingers and toes;
this results in cold, pale fingers and toes, followed by pain and redness
in these areas as blood flow returns. The underlying problem is
constriction of the blood vessels in response to cold, stress or
some other phenomenon supplying these areas. Symptoms are often mild.
Raynaud's syndrome may occur as an isolated problem, but is
often associated with autoimmune and connective tissue disorders
such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Fitness and Diving Issue:
Raynaud's Syndrome poses a
threat to a diver who is so severely affected that he or
she may lose function or dexterity in the hands and fingers
during the dive. If coldness is a trigger that causes symptoms
in the individual, immersion in cold water will likely do the same.
These individuals should avoid diving in water cold enough to elicit
symptoms in an ungloved hand. The pain may be significant enough that,
for all practical purposes, the diver will not be able to use his or
her hands. Less severely affected individuals may be able to function
adequately in the water.
Medication used in Treatment: Calcium channel blockers may be prescribed for individuals with severe symptoms. Lightheadedness when going from a sitting or supine position to standing may be a significant side effect.
(James Caruso MD, Alert Diver, Jul-Aug 1999.)
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Cardiovascular Topics
- Hypertension
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
- Mitral Valve Prolapse
- Cardiac Dysrythmias
- Cardiac Mumurs
- Atrial & Ventrical Septal Defects
- Raynaud's Syndrome
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)
- Heart Valve Replacement
- Pacemakers and Diving (.pdf)