People in the UK suffering from a painful condition that turns fingers blue, especially in cold weather, are being alerted to a potential medication available through the NHS. The prescription drug nifedipine could help manage symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon, but it is not suitable for everyone.
TV Doctor Highlights Winter Treatment Option
The advice came to light during a discussion on a wellness podcast co-hosted by TV presenter Cherry Healey and ITV's Dr Amir Khan. A listener wrote in describing how their Raynaud's causes hands and feet to turn "purple to white" and become "so painful" during winter. Healey, who also experiences the condition, sought expert insight from her co-presenter.
Dr Amir Khan, a regular on shows like Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, explained that doctors can prescribe medication to be taken regularly during colder months. "It's the same medication that [doctors] give people with high blood pressure," he said, clarifying that it works by relaxing and opening up blood vessels that constrict during a Raynaud's attack.
What is Nifedipine and Who Can Take It?
The NHS confirms the drug in question is nifedipine. Primarily used to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes, it is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, typically taken as a tablet or capsule. Liquid forms may be available for those who struggle with pills.
While most adults over 18 can be treated with nifedipine, it is not appropriate for all patients. Medical professionals may not prescribe it if a patient has:
- A history of allergic reaction to nifedipine or any other medicine.
- Liver disease.
- Certain heart problems, such as recent heart attack, heart failure, or unstable angina (other than high blood pressure).
- Diabetes.
Patients prescribed nifedipine are also warned to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as it can increase levels of the drug in the body, potentially causing headaches, flushing, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Understanding Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's is a common condition where blood supply to extremities like fingers and toes is temporarily reduced, often in response to cold or stress. This can cause the skin to change colour, turning white, then blue or purple, and can be accompanied by pain or numbness. Episodes can last from a few minutes to several hours.
The NHS states that the condition is usually not severe and can often be managed by keeping warm. However, you should contact a doctor if:
- Your symptoms are severe or worsening.
- Raynaud's affects your daily life.
- Symptoms occur on only one side of your body.
- You also have joint pain, skin rashes, or muscle weakness.
- You are over 30 and experience symptoms for the first time.
- Your child under 12 shows symptoms.
The key takeaway for sufferers is that while self-care is the first step, effective prescription treatments like nifedipine exist. Anyone whose life is impacted by Raynaud's should discuss their symptoms and potential treatment options with their GP.
