Risk factors

Risk factors for primary Raynaud's include:

• Sex. More women than men are affected.
• Age. Although anyone can develop the condition, primary Raynaud's often begins between the ages of 15 and 30.
• Climate. The disorder is also more common in people who live in colder climates.
• Family history. A first-degree relative — a parent, sibling or child — having the disease appears to increase your risk of primary Raynaud's.

Risk factors for secondary Raynaud's include:

• Associated diseases. These include conditions such as scleroderma and lupus.
• Certain occupations. These include jobs that cause repetitive trauma, such as operating tools that vibrate.
• Exposure to certain substances. This includes smoking, taking medications that affect the blood vessels and being exposed to certain chemicals, such as vinyl chloride.