Is raynaud's disease harmful?

Yes: Over time, raynaud's symptoms in the fingers and toes will result in atrophy (shrinkage) of the skin, muscles, and whatever else is in the fingers and toes. The damage is due to lack of nutrients and lack of oxygen when the vasospasm occurs. In severe cases, gangrene (tissue death) of parts of the fingers and toes can occur.

Usually an annoyance: Raynauds involves cold or stress induced vasoasm of small vessels in hands and feet. It is really more of an annoyance than a harmful problem. Calcium channel blockers are the most common medication that physicians use to treat the symptoms of raynauds. The main drawback is the side effects from these medicines. Keeping your hands and feet warm remains the best treatment.