Fingertip pain

[Lldundore]

I have unexplained fingertip pain. So far does not involve the index or any joints. Nailbeds are very tender and surrounding skin gets red and blotchy. Washing with hot water is painful. Has been intermittent, not always same fingers but mostly right hand however left palm was affected once. Areas burn and feel hot to touch. Please help, I feel crazy saying my finger hurts!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Numbness and tingling are abnormal sensations that can occur anywhere in your body, but are often felt in your hands, feet, arms, or legs. They are called Paresthesia. Chronic paresthesia indicates a problem with the functioning of neurons.

Parasthesias are common in alcoholics and metabolic disorders like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and hypoparathyroidism. They can also be due to peripheral vascular disease, vitamin B12 deficiency or malnutrition. Get your blood sugar and thyroid hormones levels evaluated. You can take some vit B12 for some days and see if the tingling is gone or not. In case the symptoms persist then please consult a neurologist as it can be due to some neurological disorder.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Lldundore]

Thank you for your response. I made an appt with a neurologist since I've had problems with my arms and hands going numb at night.  Unfortunately I can't get in until July but it's a start.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Pain in fingertips can be due to Raynauds’ disease, peripheral vascular disease, embolism, scleroderma or gouty arthritis. I suggest you to get an evaluation done from a physician and get it evaluated.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.