Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Raynaud's syndrome is typically caused by what type of exposure?

1. Exposure to cold temperatures

2. Overexposure to vibrating tools

3. Contact with contaminated substances

4. Exposure to hazardous chemicals

The correct answer is: Overexposure to vibrating tools

Raynaud's syndrome is primarily characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the fingers and toes, leading to symptoms such as color changes, numbness, and tingling. It is most commonly triggered by exposure to cold temperatures or emotional stress, causing the small blood vessels in these areas to constrict or spasm. In the context of the question, the correct answer points to exposure to cold temperatures. Cold environments can lead to vasoconstriction, which is the main mechanism behind the symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome. When individuals are exposed to cold, their bodies default to conserving heat, resulting in restricted blood flow. This can exacerbate or initiate episodes of Raynaud's. While overexposure to vibrating tools may lead to conditions like hand-arm vibration syndrome, which can also affect blood flow and cause similar symptoms, it is not the primary cause of Raynaud's syndrome itself. Thus, while the effects of vibrating tools are a concern in occupational health, particularly related to vibration-induced vascular issues, they do not specifically pertain to the typical causes of Raynaud's syndrome.