Cold Fingers and Prolonged Facial Edema: Causes and Solutions

Stiffness in the fingers and prolonged suspected facial edema?

Hello, doctor.
I often experience cold fingers, especially during winter.
Even after playing sports for two hours, my fingers remain cold.
Sometimes, in the morning, my fingers feel a bit stiff, but they improve after moving them.
What could be the cause of these symptoms? Additionally, when I press on my facial and neck skin, the rebound time is longer than that of normal skin (it visibly dents, but sometimes it doesn't).
However, this does not happen on other parts of my body.
What could be the reason for this? Thank you.

Cheng Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/21

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, regarding your questions, there are a few points that need clarification:
1.
Concerning cold hands and feet, I would like to know if there are any color changes, such as turning white, then purple, and finally red.
If so, it may indicate Raynaud's phenomenon, and you should consult a rheumatologist.
If there are no color changes, it suggests poor blood circulation, and I recommend increasing your physical activity.
2.
Regarding stiffness in the hands and feet, does it last longer than 30 minutes? If it does, it may also be related to rheumatologic issues.
If it does not exceed 30 minutes, this is considered a normal physiological response, which can also be improved through exercise.
3.
As for facial swelling, some individuals may experience puffiness due to excessive salt intake in their diet.
Once the excess salt is eliminated, the swelling should return to normal.
This aspect should not be a cause for concern.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/12/21

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the persistent coldness in your fingers and the stiffness upon waking, can be attributed to several underlying causes. Cold fingers, especially in winter, can often indicate issues related to blood circulation or nerve function. When you mention that your fingers remain cold even after physical activity, it suggests that there may be a problem with blood flow or peripheral circulation.
One common condition associated with cold fingers is Raynaud's phenomenon, where blood vessels in the fingers constrict excessively in response to cold or stress, leading to reduced blood flow. This can cause the fingers to feel cold, numb, or even painful. If you notice color changes in your fingers, such as turning white or blue, this could further support the diagnosis of Raynaud's. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a rheumatologist or a specialist in vascular medicine for a thorough evaluation.

Another potential cause of your symptoms could be peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the peripheral nerves. This can result from various factors, including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or exposure to toxins. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to sensations of coldness, tingling, or numbness in the extremities. If you have a history of diabetes or other metabolic disorders, it would be prudent to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Regarding the stiffness you experience in your fingers upon waking, this could be related to a condition known as morning stiffness, which is often associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. If the stiffness lasts for more than 30 minutes and is accompanied by swelling or pain, it may warrant further investigation for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthropathies.

As for the facial edema and the prolonged rebound time when you press on your skin, this could indicate a few different things. Edema can occur due to various reasons, including fluid retention, dietary factors (such as high salt intake), or even certain medications. The fact that you notice a difference in rebound time in your facial skin compared to other areas of your body could suggest localized edema or a difference in skin elasticity. If the swelling is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions such as kidney or heart issues.

To address these symptoms, several strategies can be employed:
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Ensure you are staying warm during colder months, as this can help prevent the constriction of blood vessels. Wearing gloves and warm clothing can be beneficial.

2. Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve circulation and overall vascular health. Engaging in activities that promote blood flow, such as aerobic exercises, can be particularly helpful.

3. Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins, can support nerve health. Reducing salt intake may help with facial edema.

4. Medical Evaluation: If symptoms persist, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider may recommend blood tests, imaging studies, or referrals to specialists based on your symptoms.

5. Medications: Depending on the diagnosis, medications such as vasodilators for Raynaud's or anti-inflammatory drugs for arthritis may be prescribed.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may seem benign, they could be indicative of underlying health issues that require attention. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment for your symptoms.

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