Even if you’re not feeling unwell, your hands could reveal the secrets of a hidden health condition
Your eyes may be the window to the soul, but it’s your hands that can give the game away when it comes to wellness – and your age. ‘Hands can reveal a significant amount about your general health,’ says GP Dr Judith Holmes. ‘At medical school, student doctors are taught to start any formal clinical examination by looking at the patient’s hands, as they can provide so many clues as to what may be happening under the surface.’ Here’s what to look out for...
Aches and pains
‘Tingling, throbbing, cramp and stiffness could be repetitive strain injury, especially if you’re using a computer mouse or keyboard regularly,’ says Dr Holmes. Stretching can help. With your arm extended, stretch your fingers back one at a time and then all together. Squeeze your hands into fists, then open slowly and as fully as you can. If pain is persistent, see your doctor.
Sweating or dry skin
This could indicate thyroid issues. ‘An overactive thyroid can cause hands to tremor and the skin to become excessively sweaty,’ says Dr Holmes. ‘If underactive, it may cause dry skin on the hands with the nail separating from the nail bed underneath. And you may see ridging or discolouration of the nails, too.’ Worried? Ask your GP for a blood test. ‘In most cases, you’re also likely to have other symptoms, such as difficulty staying warm or cooling down, extreme tiredness, protruding eyes or hair loss,’ adds Dr Holmes.
IS IT AN ALLERGY?
Skin allergies to nickel or chemicals produce redness, dryness or blisters. Your pharmacist can recommend a hydrocortisone cream to help.
Is that shake serious?
A tremor in the hands might make you feel self-conscious, but is usually nothing to worry about. ‘Some tremors are harmless and unexplained, although people can feel embarrassed if it causes problems, such as spilling drinks or being unable to write,’ says Dr Holmes.
If you notice a tremor developing, see your GP for support and medication and to rule out serious neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Strains and bruises
It’s easy to hurt your fingers, hands or wrists. Rest the injured area, treat with ice wrapped in a tea towel for 15 minutes (applied immediately and four times daily), painkillers and a support bandage, if necessary.
DID YOU KNOW?
Osteoarthritis causes painful lumps around the finger joints, but if they’re red and hot or the knuckles swell, you may have an inflammatory for
