Illness perceptions in Raynaud’s phenomenon: A qualitative study

TL;DR

This study explores how people with Raynaud’s Phenomenon perceive and cope with their condition, offering insights for better self-management strategies.

Contribution

The study introduces a new framework of illness perceptions and coping strategies specific to Raynaud’s Phenomenon.

Findings

Three themes emerged: illness representations, coping responses, and advice-seeking behavior.

Illness perceptions influence how individuals manage their condition and adhere to self-care.

A stepped care approach is suggested to improve management of Raynaud’s.

Abstract

Raynaud’s Phenomenon is a condition characterised by vasoconstriction of the extremities and can have a detrimental impact on people’s lives. The treatment options for patients currently offered through healthcare services, e.g., in the United Kingdom (UK), are insufficient. This study provides a theoretical basis for future interventions by presenting insights into experiences of living with Raynaud’s. Using an inductive-deductive approach, our thematic analysis of 19 semi-structured interviews with people living with Raynaud’s in the UK was informed by the common-sense model of self-regulation. Three interrelated themes were generated to capture the illness experiences of people with Raynaud’s: 1) Illness representations, 2) Coping response, and 3) Advice and guidance. Together, these themes provide insight into illness perceptions, coping styles and factors that may contribute to adherence to self-management. The findings suggest that a stepped care approach to managing Raynaud’s may be beneficial.

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