Cold Sensitivity and Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Help

Q: Cold Sensitivity and Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Help

Hello, Anan： <br>(1) The purple tingling in the hands may be caused by the following conditions： <br>1. <br>Buerger’s disease： This is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the peripheral veins and arteries of the upper and lower limbs, most commonly seen in young male smoke

Upon reflection, I realize that I have quite a few issues?

When it is cold, if I do not rub my hands to warm them up, after a while, not only do I notice that my nails appear purple, but the back of my hands also turns a purplish-black color (I noticed this while riding a bike).
My tactile sensation decreases, and I experience a prickling pain with slight pressure.
Even when the temperature is around 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, my hands still feel cold.
I also have hand sweating, and I can see a light blue-purple color at the base of my thumb nail.
Is this normal? Additionally, I sometimes feel chest tightness and discomfort, and occasionally I experience sharp pain in my left chest that radiates to my left shoulder, especially when inhaling.
I also occasionally feel pain in my lower back near the kidneys, which can be relieved by applying pressure.
Are these serious symptoms? Is further examination necessary? Or are these just common symptoms that everyone experiences?

A-Nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/27

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine

Hello, Anan:
(1) The purple tingling in the hands may be caused by the following conditions:
1.
Buerger’s disease: This is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the peripheral veins and arteries of the upper and lower limbs, most commonly seen in young male smokers.
The initial symptoms include tingling (similar to needle pricks) and a burning sensation in the fingers and toes.
It often involves the cerebral and cardiac vasculature.
Treatment: Smoking cessation.

2.
Raynaud’s disease: This occurs when blood vessels constrict in response to cold environments or emotional stress, leading to reduced blood flow and resulting in pale, cold extremities.
Following this pallor, some individuals may experience cyanosis or even erythema.
It predominantly affects females.

3.
Acrocyanosis: This is a rare vasospastic condition characterized by abnormal sensitivity of the blood vessels in the hands and feet to cold.
Common symptoms include persistent coldness and cyanosis of the hands, fingers, feet, and toes.
The condition may last for several years.
Treatment mainly involves keeping the hands and feet warm.
If the situation is concerning, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

(2) Chest pain radiating to the left shoulder may be a symptom of myocardial ischemia; an electrocardiogram (ECG) is recommended.
It may also be related to the first condition mentioned above.

(3) Lower back pain may be associated with the kidneys, muscles, or lumbar spine; further examination is recommended.

Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Jian-Ling, Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2004/02/27

More Info

Your symptoms of cold sensitivity, particularly in your hands, along with the accompanying discoloration and discomfort, warrant careful consideration. The fact that your fingers turn purple and feel cold even at relatively mild temperatures (23-25 degrees Celsius) suggests that you may be experiencing a condition known as Raynaud's phenomenon. This condition is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, often triggered by cold temperatures or stress. The discoloration you describe—purple or bluish nails and skin—indicates that blood flow is compromised, which can lead to numbness and tingling sensations.

In addition to Raynaud's phenomenon, the chest discomfort and pain you experience, particularly if it radiates to your left shoulder, could be concerning. While it is not uncommon for individuals to experience chest tightness or discomfort due to anxiety or stress, it is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions, especially if the pain is sharp, persistent, or associated with other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating. These could be signs of a cardiovascular issue, which requires immediate medical attention.

The pain in your lower back near the kidneys, along with the relief you feel from pressure, could indicate a musculoskeletal issue or even kidney-related problems. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

Given the combination of symptoms you are experiencing—cold sensitivity, discoloration of the fingers, chest discomfort, and back pain—it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a referral to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist or cardiologist, depending on the findings.

In summary, while some individuals may experience mild cold sensitivity and discomfort, the specific symptoms you describe—particularly the discoloration of your fingers and the chest pain—should not be ignored. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that any serious conditions are ruled out and to receive appropriate guidance and treatment. Early intervention can be crucial in managing symptoms effectively and preventing potential complications.

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