From scoop.upworthy.com
The doctor pointed out that watching these signs and symptoms can help a person seek treatment for serious illnesses on time
Apart from pain and other forms of illnesses, there are other more subtle details that can reveal a lot about our health. Even subtle changes to our hands can signal things that are worth a health check if nothing else. These signs can even help treat health conditions before they become serious. It might even help one avoid any unnecessary health complications a person might face going forward. Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy told Yahoo Life how our hands can tell our health.
"From cardiovascular disease to psoriasis, our hands can tell us a lot about our health – indicating potentially serious health conditions. It’s vital to understand the tell-tale signs of illness and how to spot changes in hands to avoid a further reduction in well-being," Dr Grant told the outlet. He shared five warning signs people should watch out for. The first thing that can indicate a health condition is the changes in our nails. "A range of health issues can all lead to alterations in nail appearance and texture. Firstly, pitted nails are when small dents or pits form on the surface of fingernails and can indicate psoriasis. In severe cases, it can cause the nails to crumble."
“Additionally, yellow nails can be an indicator of a range of health issues, including fungal infections or underlying health conditions such as lung disease. With so many potential causes, it’s vital to seek further advice from a GP to diagnose the issue and receive the correct treatment," Dr. Grant continued. Next up, the doctor advised people to watch out for any texture or colour changes on the skin of the hands. "Palmar Erythema is a skin condition causing the palms of hands to turn red, it can also bring a burning sensation and affects people for a range of reasons, including pregnancy – however, it can also be a sign of worrying health conditions such as lymphoma or liver disease," he pointed out.
"Additionally, vitamin deficiencies, such as not attaining enough calcium or vitamin D can lead to dry patches of skin appearing on the hands, highlighting the need for a well-balanced diet," the doctor emphasized. On the other hand, he pointed out stiff joints could be a sign of arthritis as per Express UK. "Osteoarthritis is a common condition that can lead to swelling, pain and stiffness while reducing movement. It tends to affect the base of the thumb and middle joints of the fingers but can cause pain all throughout the hand." Cold hands are another important symptom to watch out for. It could signal poor circulation and health conditions like diabetes and anaemia.
"If you experience a long-lasting change in hand temperature, it may be best to seek additional medical advice," the doctor recommended. Thickened fingers or change in thickness is another important thing to pay attention to. "A common symptom of pulmonary fibrosis - a type of lung disease - is the widening of fingers and clubbing of fingernails," Dr. Grant shared. "Dactylitis, where fingers become much wider in appearance, can be a sign of sickle cell disease, tuberculosis, or a bacterial infection. With so many potentially dangerous causes, I strongly advise people to seek urgent medical attention if they notice any changes to their fingers."
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