Little known signals in our fingers could actually hint at an individual suffering from any of three deadly diseases. When it comes to some health conditions, the associated symptoms will make sense.
For example, lung infections or diseases often cause a persistent cough while chest pain can indicate something is wrong with the heart. However, in other cases the side effects can seem like they have nothing to do with the illness.
According to health bodies, our fingers could provide clues about three deadly diseases. More specifically, certain symptoms on the fingers could indicate heart disease, lung cancer and leukaemia.
While most of these signs can be harmless, it is always worth speaking to a medical professional if they persist or get worse.
The two signs to look for are:
- Finger clubbing
- Bruised fingers.
Finger clubbing
Finger clubbing causes the ends of the fingers to look larger, giving them a clubbed appearance.
The nails can become more curved and the skin around them can become shiny, Cancer Research UK says.
It can be a sign of a number of underlying health conditions, particularly of the lungs or heart.
Cancer Research UK explains: “This includes cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. But finger clubbing can also be found in some people with thyroid problems or other conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.”
This “unusual” symptom can take years to develop. If you notice it on your hands you should speak to your GP.
Bruised fingers
It is quite rare to have bruising on your fingers and it could suggest an issue with your blood.
Unexplained bruising is a potential symptom of leukaemia – a type of blood cancer.
Leukaemia UK’s research director Simon Ridley told the Express: “One of the common warning signs and symptoms of leukaemia is bruising.
“These bruises are different from the ones we all get occasionally as they can appear in strange or unexpected places, such as on the hands for adults.”
While not on the fingers, swollen knuckles could also indicate a problem.
These can be a sign of a dangerous condition that is usually symptomless.
Swollen knuckles could be tendon xanthomata, which is a build-up of cholesterol in the hands.
This means you could have high cholesterol – a major risk factor for heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.
Xanthomatas can also appear around the eyes as small yellow bumps.
If you experience any of these unexplained signs or have any concerns you should speak to your doctor.