Your skin is the largest organ in your body, which makes it prone to many problems. The skin on your fingers also is the most unprotected making it likely to come into contact with irritants, allergens or disease-causing germs. As such, finding small red bumps on your fingers is not uncommon. Red bumps on your fingers are likely a minor health concern, but you should consult a doctor if they don't go away.
Types
According to FamilyDoctor.org, the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians, a variety of things can cause red bumps on the fingers. Insect bites, allergic reactions and fungal infections are common causes of red bumps on the fingers and elsewhere. Bacterial infections such as folliculitis and cellulitis can also cause red bumps on your fingers. Warts, which can result from a viral infection, are also common on the hands and fingers.
Significance
While most causes of red bumps on the fingers prove minor, certain types of red bumps could indicate a more serious illness. Bite-like sores that start on the insides of your fingers could be indicative of scabies, a mite that burrows into the skin. You will need prescription medication to get rid of this. Rashes that start on the hands and fingers could also indicate syphilis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a tick-borne illness, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Symptoms
You may experience other symptoms depending on what causes the red bumps on your fingers. If your bumps occur because of insect bites, or allergic or chemical reactions, your bumps may itch or cause pain. Infections can also cause itching and pain as well as a discharge of fluid or pus. Red bumps caused by a systemic illness may be accompanied by fever, fatigue and joint pain.
Treatment
Treatment of the red bumps on your fingers will depend on what causes them. In many cases, such as with insect bites and allergic reactions, no treatment is necessary and the bumps will resolve on their own. However, you can use topical creams to relieve pain and itching. If your bumps are due to warts, you can use over-the-counter wart removal medications or you can see a doctor to talk about medical removal via freezing or minor surgery.
Warning
See a doctor if the bumps on your fingers don't go away within a week or two, or if they appear to spread. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also consider seeing a doctor if you have a chronic problem with red bumps on your fingers. This could mean you have an allergy or skin problem that your doctor can diagnose and treat.
