Fast facts on Raynaud's disease Here are some key points about Raynaud's disease. Raynaud's disease is caused by peripheral blood vessels overreacting to cold. Maurice Raynaud first described the disease in 1862. Females and people living in colder climates are more often affected. A capillaroscopy can help diagnose Raynaud's disease. Causes of secondary Raynaud's include: Diseases of the arteries: Atherosclerosis, a build-up of plaque in blood vessels, or Buerger's syndrome, a disorder where blood vessels in the hands and feet become inflamed, can cause Raynaud's symptoms. Primary pulmonary hypertension has also been linked to the disease. Diseases of the connective tissue: Most people with scleroderma, a disease leading to hardened skin, have Raynaud's disease. The symptoms are commonly linked to lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease affecting glands. Repetition or vibration: People whose hobbies or jobs require repetitive movements, such as typing or playing the guitar or piano, are at risk of developing Raynaud's symptoms. Those whose jobs involve using vibrating tools, such as a jackhammer, are also at risk. Carpal tunnel syndrome: This condition puts pressure on the nerves traveling to the hand, and it increases susceptibility to Raynaud's symptoms. Medications: Drugs that can induce Raynaud's include beta blockers, migraine medications containing ergotamine or sumatriptan, ADHD medications, some chemotherapy drugs, and some over-the-counter cold remedies. Exposure to certain substances: Smoking narrows blood vessels and is a possible cause of Raynaud's. Other chemicals, such as vinyl chloride, may also play a role. Injuries: Raynaud's can start after injuries such as frostbite, a broken wrist, or local surgery. Raynaud's tends to affect females more than males. Primary Raynaud's normally starts between the ages of 15 years and 25 years, and secondary Raynaud's between 35 and 40 years. The condition appears to run in families. A person a first-degree relative with Raynaud's is more likely to develop it. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176713.php