Circulation problems in the hands cause numbness and tingling, blanching of the skin, bluish discoloration to the nail beds, cold hands, decreased mobility and pain. Certain disease states and medications decrease circulation to the hands or nerves that innervate the hands, leading to these symptoms. People who experience the listed symptoms frequently or for a prolonged period of time are wise to be evaluated by a physician to determine the cause.
Raynaud's Disease
According to Donna D. Ignatavicius, MS RN, and M. Linda Workman, Ph.D, authors of "Medical-Surgical Nursing: Critical Thinking for Collaborative Care," Raynaud's disease is a condition characterized by abnormal vasoconstriction (narrowing) of peripheral arteries in the extremities and is most frequently found in young females. Exposure to cold temperatures and stress trigger vasoconstriction, decreasing circulation to the hands and feet. Fingers and toes become pale or even cyanotic (blue-tinged) and gangrene is possible if circulation is not restored. People with Raynaud's disease wear warm socks and gloves whenever exposed to colder temperatures, including exposure to cold objects, and are advised to control stress. Smoking is not recommended because it causes vasoconstriction, exacerbating symptoms of Raynaud's disease.
Scleroderma
Scleroderma is a chronic disease which causes hardening and thickening of tissues and organs. The skin loses its elasticity and becomes leathery and discolored due to hyperpigmentation.
At the onset of the disease process, symptoms are predominantly skin-related. This early phase is called limited scleroderma syndrome. The Mayo Clinic explains that for some individuals, limited scleroderma is as far as the disease progresses. One of the symptoms of this condition is decreased circulation to the hands.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease causes decreased circulation to the extremities. The American Heart Association explains that the most common cause of decreased arterial circulation is atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. PAD is most common in the legs but the arms and hands are also affected. Symptoms resemble Raynaud's disease. As the arteriosclerosis progresses so do the symptoms.
Buerger's Disease
Buerger's disease primarily affects the lower extremities, but the arms and hands may also be affected. The Mayo Clinic explains that in Buerger's disease, small blood clots called thrombi form in the peripheral arteries impairing blood flow to the digits (fingers and toes). Symptoms are pallor, cyanosis, pain followed by loss of sensation, ulcer formation and gangrene. Amputation of the affected digit or hand is necessary if circulation cannot be restored. People with Buerger's disease are strongly advised not to smoke because smoking causes vasoconstriction and increases the formation of blood clots.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing: Critical Thinking for Collaborative Care"; Donna D. Ignatavicius MS RN, & M. Linda Workman Ph.D; 2006
- The Mayo Clinic: "CREST Syndrome (Limited Scleroderma)"
- American Heart Association: "PAD Symptoms and Diagnosis"
- The Mayo Clinic: "Buerger's Disease"
