Hand Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?

Which specialty should I see?

Hello Doctor, this morning when I woke up, I noticed that my hands were red, somewhat warm, and itchy.
It feels like the sensation you get after putting your hands in very hot water for a while and then taking them out, with a tingling and itchy feeling.
When I hold a pen or pick things up, I also experience a prickling sensation.
My palms have been red and warm all day, and this condition has persisted throughout the day.
I would like to ask you, Doctor, what could be causing this situation? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

J, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/28

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

It is recommended to first consult a dermatologist for a professional evaluation.
Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2017/11/28

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms in your hands, including redness, warmth, itching, and a tingling sensation. These symptoms can be indicative of several underlying conditions, and it's important to approach this matter with care.

The sensations you're describing—redness, warmth, and tingling—could be related to a variety of issues. Some potential causes include:
1. Allergic Reactions: If you've come into contact with a new substance, such as a soap, lotion, or even a food item, your body might be reacting to it. Allergic reactions can cause localized redness, warmth, and itching.

2. Infections: A skin infection, such as cellulitis, could cause similar symptoms. This would typically be accompanied by swelling, pain, and possibly fever.

3. Nerve Issues: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy can lead to tingling sensations in the hands. These conditions often arise from repetitive strain or underlying health issues like diabetes.

4. Circulatory Problems: Conditions that affect blood flow, such as Raynaud's phenomenon, can cause changes in color and temperature in the hands.

5. Dermatitis: Conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis can lead to red, itchy, and inflamed skin.

Given the variety of potential causes, it is advisable to seek medical attention. The type of specialist you should see depends on your symptoms and their severity:
- Primary Care Physician: This is often the best starting point. They can evaluate your symptoms, take a detailed history, and perform a physical examination. Based on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist if necessary.

- Dermatologist: If your symptoms are primarily skin-related (redness, itching), a dermatologist would be well-equipped to diagnose and treat skin conditions.

- Neurologist: If the tingling sensation persists or worsens, or if you experience weakness or other neurological symptoms, a neurologist may be appropriate to evaluate for nerve-related issues.

- Rheumatologist: If there is a suspicion of an autoimmune condition (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), a rheumatologist would be the right specialist to consult.

When you visit a healthcare provider, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including when they started, any potential triggers, and any other symptoms you may have experienced. This information will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

In the meantime, try to avoid any known irritants or allergens, and keep your hands moisturized to alleviate dryness or irritation. If you notice any worsening of your symptoms, such as increased swelling, pain, or fever, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while your symptoms could be due to a variety of causes, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying issue and receive appropriate treatment. Starting with a primary care physician is a good approach, as they can guide you through the next steps based on their assessment.

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