The palms are very red?
The palms and fingertips, as well as the soles of the feet, are very red.
I asked my family doctor if this could be palmar erythema, but he said it is not because the two red areas are not connected.
I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have regular check-ups, which are generally normal.
Some people say it could be related to spleen issues.
What could this be, and which specialist should I consult for diagnosis and treatment?
kao, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/10/03
Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear kao/0/48 user,
Hello!
1.
Regarding the redness at the tips of the fingers and palms, as well as the soles of the feet, it may be due to excessive proliferation of peripheral microvessels.
Alternatively, it could be a result of vigorous blood circulation in young individuals, leading to congestion in the peripheral microvessels.
As long as there are no other discomforts in the body and the biochemical blood tests are normal, there is likely no need for excessive concern.
2.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this condition may be classified as a pattern of excess Qi and heat in the blood.
For treatment, you may consider herbal prescriptions that clear heat and cool the blood to improve your constitution.
From a Western medicine perspective, it would be advisable to consult the dermatology department of our hospital for further examination to rule out other underlying causes.
Finally, I wish you well.
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung,
Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine,
Fengyuan Hospital,
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
Reply Date: 2008/10/03
More Info
Understanding the condition of red palms and fingers, particularly in the context of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), can be quite complex. In TCM, the color and condition of the palms and fingers can provide insights into the body's internal health, particularly concerning the liver, spleen, and overall Qi (energy) balance.
Firstly, the observation of red palms and fingertips can be indicative of various underlying conditions. In TCM, the liver is associated with the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. When there is stagnation or excess heat in the liver, it can manifest as redness in the palms. However, your family doctor has indicated that this is not the case for you, as the redness is not continuous across the palms. This suggests that the redness may not be solely related to liver dysfunction.
The spleen, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in digestion and the production of Qi and blood. A deficiency in spleen function can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, poor appetite, and sometimes changes in skin color. In TCM, a "spleen deficiency" might manifest as a pale complexion, but in some cases, it could also lead to a more pronounced redness in the extremities due to an imbalance in the body's internal heat and moisture levels.
Given your status as a carrier of Hepatitis B and your regular monitoring, it is essential to consider that liver health can influence other organs, including the spleen. Chronic liver conditions can lead to a variety of systemic effects, including changes in skin coloration. However, the specific pattern of redness you describe—localized and not continuous—may suggest a different issue, possibly related to blood circulation or even an inflammatory response.
To address your concerns, it would be advisable to consult with a specialist in Traditional Chinese Medicine. A licensed TCM practitioner can provide a comprehensive evaluation, including pulse diagnosis and tongue examination, which are critical components of TCM diagnostics. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to liver or spleen health or if they stem from another issue entirely.
In addition to TCM, it may also be beneficial to see a dermatologist or a specialist in internal medicine who can assess any potential skin conditions or systemic issues that might be contributing to the redness. They can perform necessary tests to rule out conditions such as autoimmune disorders, vascular issues, or other dermatological concerns.
In summary, while the redness in your palms and fingers may not be directly linked to liver issues as per your doctor's assessment, it is essential to explore other potential causes, including spleen function and overall Qi balance. Consulting with a TCM practitioner, along with a specialist in internal medicine or dermatology, will provide a more holistic understanding of your condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Regular monitoring of your Hepatitis B status is also crucial, as it can impact your overall health and should be managed in conjunction with any other treatments you pursue.
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