Treating And Preventing Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD) is a condition that causes lasting pain in some part of the body. Usually, the affected area will be a leg or arm. It tends to occur after a heart attack, stroke, or injury. However, the pain's severity is often worse than the first injury. Though doctors are unsure what the exact cause is, they're capable of treating some cases. 

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is the older term used to describe a particular version of complex regional pain syndrome, otherwise known as CRPS. Sometimes, reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is referred to as Type 1 CRPS. The cause tends to be tissue injury without any discernible nerve damage.

Cool And Moist Compresses To Affected Area

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome doesn't have a cure, but there are many different treatments available. The most important component is early detection. When individuals catch the syndrome earlier, they tend to respond better to pain management options. There have been certain cases of RSD that don't improve with treatment. One of the most common at-home remedies is cool and moist compresses to the affected area. Some patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome feel pain like a burning sensation.

By wetting a washcloth with cool water and applying it to the burning area, some of the symptoms can be alleviated. This method of treatment is a common means of symptom management because it doesn't require medication, doesn't involve invasive medical procedures, and is easily accessible to everyone with access to water. With that said, it won't necessarily alleviate all of the symptoms.