Eating/drinking cold food or beverages

[LisaB356]

I am affected all over my body and also internally...if i eat or drink something cold my tongue, cheeks, lips, and esophagus swell up.

Does anyone else here experience it this severely?

[zenabb]

It has not happened to me like you. If I drink cold drinks my extremities are affected. What happens to you when you drink hot drinks?

I have found over the years that all sorts of peculiar things happen, last a few weeks or months and then disappear. But it is best to get professional advice. Have you contacted your specialist nurse?

[uknlv]

Ive never had any issue with this other than my teeth, but they have always been sensative since I was a baby, so don't think it has anything to do with the scleroderma. But I agree with zenabb if your esophagus is swelling then you should see your doctor, it could be some type of allergic reaction to the type of drink not just the temperature.

[LisaB356]

I do not have any food allergies. It happens if I eat or drink ANYTHING cold. I do not have scleroderma...just Raynauds.

When I saw the rheumatologist and told him that this happens he said he'd had one other Raynauds patient who had it that badly too. But I've never spoke with anyone else who experiences it so severe.

[Hidden]

It sounds quite distressing and frightening for you. I would avoid eating/drinking cold things. Try leaving drinks/food out off the fridge for a short time, to reach room temperature before consuming. I am sure it is quite difficult for you at times .

[LisaB356]

Right Nuala...I've gotten quite used to room temp beverages and avoiding ice cream (which is hard sometimes...lol). When I eat my cereal I put the milk in the microwave for about 10-12 seconds (ours is a powerful microwave so it works quickly) when eating my breakfast.

Carbonated beverages don't seem to be as bothersome but maybe that's because of the bubbles and the fact that I don't drink stuff like soda or beer too quickly.