What would cause hands to turn green?
Copper toxicity: Green hands can be a symptom of copper toxicity. Chronic copper toxicity can result from occupational exposure to copper, such as in mining or manufacturing. Wilson's disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes an excess amount of copper to be stored in the liver and other organs. When the liver is damaged, copper can be released into the bloodstream, leading to a variety of symptoms, including green hands.
Pesticides: Certain pesticides and herbicides can cause the skin to turn green. Exposure to these chemicals can occur through direct skin contact or by consuming food or water that has been contaminated.
Skin infections: Some types of skin infections can also cause the skin to turn green. For example, a Pseudomonas infection can cause a greenish discoloration of the skin due to the production of a pigment called pyocyanin.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as argyria and hemochromatosis, can cause the skin to turn green. Argyria is a rare condition caused by the accumulation of silver in the body, which can lead to blue-gray or greenish discoloration of the skin. Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes an excessive amount of iron to be stored in the body, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including bronze or greenish skin discoloration.
Copper pipe corrosion: Copper pipes that have corroded can release copper into the water supply, leading to green hands when a person washes their hands with the water.
Hand sanitizer: Some hand sanitizers contain chemicals that can cause a temporary greenish discoloration of the skin.
If you notice that your hands are turning green, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.