Raynaud's disease?

[Junglemum]

My girlfriend has/had quite severe Raynaud's. She grew up with it, and never grew out of it, at 28 she decided to have nerve surgery, it has made a big difference to her. Prior to that, she just lived with it. I think the treatment depends on the severity. She could have taken medication, but chose not to. I'm not sure of her reasons for that.

If you are unhappy with the information you got, i too would be asking for a referal to a paed. You need to have all your questions answered.

[Schmickers]

I honestly don't know a lot about it, it's not that common in kids and I've never nursed any children with it. I do know it is implicated in breastfeeding problems in women, though - the severe vasoconstriction that you see in her hands and feet that makes them turn white can occur in the nipples too, and be quite painful.

I would see the paediatrician for some more information.

[Michelle71]

I have it mainly in the right nipple and yes, it is very painful. The nipple turns white and then a purplish / deep red as the blood supply returns. It can be excruciating and caused the fissure in my nipple 3 months to heal due to the altered blood supply and continued feeding. I was on nifedipine for a few months (a blood pressure medication / calcium channel blocker) which helped immensely and have weaned off it again now. We continue to exclusively BF.

I find I need to keep the breast warm - multiple clothing layers, and the cold can be painful. I can't feed outside on the right side in the cooler weather because of the pain / discomfort.

IMO - I would get her evaluated by a paed for peace of mind. If she has no pain then generally there is nothing to do except try to keep the areas warm. If there is pain they should be able to refer you to someone who specialises in the management and offer some alternative treatment options.

[sazzafrazz]

Thanks so much for your responses everybody.

She doesnt seem to suffer any pain with it so that's great - she still uses her hands even when blue/grey but perhaps a little more stiffly. I usually make her wear her mittens when outside and she is always happy to have them put on so I think she appreciates them. (must buy more as they do need to be washed occasionally!!!)

I am taking her to have her 18months health check this week so I will ask for a referral from the health nurse then.

I will keep you posted....