What are Red Hands a Symptom of?
October 4, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Red hands can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, ranging from benign causes to more serious medical issues. The redness of the hands can result from several factors, and it’s important to consider accompanying symptoms and circumstances for a comprehensive evaluation. Here are some potential causes of red hands:
- Peripheral Vasodilation: Exposure to heat, cold, or certain chemicals can cause blood vessels in the hands to dilate (vasodilation), leading to redness and warmth. This is usually a physiological response and not a cause for concern.
- Contact Dermatitis: Exposure to irritants or allergens, such as certain soaps, detergents, chemicals, or allergenic plants, can cause skin inflammation and redness on the hands.
- Eczema: Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a chronic skin condition that can cause red, itchy, and inflamed skin on the hands and other parts of the body.
- Raynaud’s Disease: Raynaud’s disease is a disorder that affects blood circulation, causing the fingers and hands to turn white, then blue, and later red due to reduced blood flow.
- Erythromelalgia: This rare disorder is characterized by intense burning pain, warmth, and redness of the extremities, including the hands and feet.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pressure on the median nerve in the wrist (carpal tunnel) can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the hands.
- Sunburn: Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause sunburn, leading to redness and skin irritation on the hands and other exposed areas.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to foods, medications, or insect bites can manifest as redness and swelling on the hands.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as cellulitis, can cause redness and inflammation of the skin on the hands, often accompanied by pain and warmth.
- High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the hands to dilate, leading to redness.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause redness and swelling in the hands due to immune system responses.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during menopause, can sometimes cause redness and warmth in the hands.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications, particularly vasodilators, can cause redness in the hands as a side effect.
If you experience persistent or unexplained redness in your hands, especially if it’s accompanied by pain, swelling, itching, or other concerning symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate diagnosis. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may involve lifestyle changes, topical treatments, medications, or other interventions based on the diagnosis.