I have a brain teaser for you. What can be fat or long, wrinkled or smooth, freckled or veiny, black or white? Give up? Your hands! Believe it or not your hands can say a lot about you and your health. I recently had swollen hands and wanted to check into it a little more. Here are some common symptoms that are associated with your hands, and what they can mean.
Swollen Fingers
If your salt consumption is low, and your monthly friend is not due for weeks, swollen fingers may suggest something known as hypothyroidism. What is hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism relates to, you guessed it, the thyroid gland. It is a condition in which the thyroid gland under produces the hormones needed to regulate your metabolism. Hypothyroidism is associated with decreased metabolism, weight gain, and the accumulation of water in the body. If the condition is left untreated it can cause fatigue, low libido, and even heart failure. A simple blood test performed by your doctor can detect the condition. Hormone treatment therapy can help and your hands can get back to normal.
Itchy, Burning, Red Palms
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and burning. Stress can cause the condition to worsen. Irritation can be limited by wearing gloves when cleaning, and using soapless cleansers. If irritation persists, it could indicate an allergy to jewelry, chemicals in certain products, or side effects of antibiotics.
Pale Fingernails
Try this, push on your nail for 30 seconds, then release. Your nail should look white, then return to a pale pink in a matter of seconds. What happens if your nail stays white for minutes? It can indicate anemia or low iron deficiency. Anemia can lead to fatigue or more seriously heart problems. To avoid anemia, eat foods such as lean meats and nuts. Vitamin C rich foods can also aid in iron absorption in the body.
Numb, Blue Fingertips
5 to 10% of the population has a condition known as Raynaud’s disease, a temporary blood condition that constricts blood flow to your fingers. It is typically seen in women, and triggered by cool temperatures and stress. It is a chronic condition that is more annoying then serious, unless numbness persists longer then one hour. In that case, it is a good idea to head to your local ER. Cigarettes and caffeine constrict blood flow so it is a good idea to cut them out. Exercise is also highly recommended to keep that blood pumping!
Discolored Nails
Discolored nails can be a sign of fungus growing under your nail, or more seriously can be an indicator of diabetes. People with diabetes have lowered immunity and vascular systems making it easier for bacteria and fungus to thrive. Signs would be green discoloration or thick dark yellow nails. Do you wear nail polish on a regular basis? If so, it can cause a yellow hue to your digits which can surprisingly be corrected by teeth whitening products.
Short Index Finger
Is your index finger shorter then your ring finger? If so, you may have an increased risk of osteoarthritis or polycystic ovarian syndrome. Polycystic ovarian syndrome can have a negative impact on fertility. The opposite side is that it can also indicate a lower chance of heart disease. Don’t use your digits length as an indicator or non indicator of these diseases, it is just a commonality.
My swollen fingers ended up being a result of a combination of salt consumption and summer heat. They went down after I got out of the heat. Have you had any of these conditions? If so how did you deal with it?
Source: www.health.msn.com
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