Raynaud’s in children

Anyone of any age can develop Raynaud’s.

In teenagers, Raynaud’s is very common, often presenting around puberty. Symptoms do seem to improve as they get older into the early twenties – this may be down to treatment, adjustment in lifestyle or hormonal changes, especially in adolescence. However, in a small number of cases the condition does persist.

Babies and young children can also develop Raynaud’s, although it is rarer. For many young children diagnosed with Raynaud’s, it is little more than a nuisance. But as it isn’t a common disease at this stage in life, it is always best to ask your doctor for further tests to rule out an underlying cause.

Raynaud’s should be taken seriously as problems experienced during these years can be more than just a nuisance. It can be painful, embarrassing and restrict your lifestyle. We encourage everyone to speak out about the troubles they have been facing with Raynaud’s and to not suffer in silence.

Managing symptoms in young children:

• Try to prevent an attack by avoiding changes in temperature and cold environments.
• Make sure your child wears lots of layers to keep as warm as possible. Hot drinks and food can help to keep them warm.
• Make sure you tell your child’s school about their Raynaud’s diagnosis and how attacks can be avoided. Special allowances may need to be made during outdoor activities and PE in cold weather.
• If your Raynaud’s is too severe for outdoor activities, consider alternatives and find an indoor hobby you can become involved with.
• Particular care should be taken when bathing a young child with Raynaud’s as they are more susceptible to hot temperatures. Temperatures which may feel acceptable to you may be too hot and painful. It is best to fill a bath with lukewarm water and top it up with warmer water as their body adapts to it.
• Try to keep the house at an even temperature and before going out, warm the clothing, especially gloves, scarves, socks, shoes etc. A child will soon come to realise that warmth is comfortable and cold is not.