What causes purple colour tingling and numbness to hands?
There are several potential causes of purple color, tingling, and numbness in the hands. Some possible underlying medical conditions include:
1. Raynaud's Disease: This is a condition that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes. It can cause the blood vessels in these areas to narrow, leading to a reduced supply of oxygen-rich blood. Symptoms include color changes (white, blue, red, or purple), tingling, numbness, and pain in the affected areas.
2. Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, can lead to a variety of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and pain. Certain conditions such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, infections, or physical injuries can cause peripheral neuropathy.
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the palm of the hand, becomes compressed. It can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
4. Blood Clots: A blood clot in an artery or vein in the hand can restrict blood flow and cause symptoms such as purple discoloration, tingling, and numbness. This can be a serious condition and requires immediate medical attention.
5. Vasculitis: This is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the blood vessels. It can affect blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the hands. Symptoms may include purple or red discoloration, tingling, numbness, weakness, and pain.
6. Frostbite: Exposure to extremely cold temperatures can cause frostbite, which can damage the skin and underlying tissues of the hands. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, pale or purple discoloration, and pain.
7. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and certain blood pressure medications, can have side effects that include numbness and tingling in the hands.
If you are experiencing purple discoloration, tingling, and numbness in your hands, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are accompanied by additional concerns or do not resolve on their own. A doctor can properly evaluate your symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and recommend the appropriate treatment.