Janet Guiel from Broadwater, has had Raynaud’s for more than 30 years and says even simple, everyday tasks can be difficult for sufferers.
The 63 year old grandmother said: “I can’t really go in the freezer aisle at the supermarket because it can bring on an attack. Places with air conditioning can do the same, so I have to plan ahead about where I go. I always carry two pairs of gloves, and I find layering my clothes really helps. I also always wear socks in bed, I’d just to too cold otherwise.”
Janet was first diagnosed with Raynaud’s after she went to see her doctor when one of her fingers turned black.
Her symptoms were improved significantly and reduced eight years ago, when she was prescribed Prozac in a low dose. It improved the blood flow in her hands and feet, and she said her quality of life has improved.
She said: “I suffer much less with it now, but I still prefer not to go out too much in the winter when it’s really cold. I would say to anyone who has just been diagnosed with the condition, that there are ways to manage it. Thermal layers are great and you do learn to get on with things.”
“I’m a member of the Raynaud’s & Scleroderma Association, which is a good way to find out more about the condition and meet others who have it.”
Photograph and article courtesy of the Worthing Herald
