Fingers that change color upon pressure

• arterial insufficiency or spasms of arteries that supply blood to the fingers and toes
• systemic lupus erythematosus
• necrotizing vasculitis
• scleroderma
• use of vibrating equipment

Note: There may be other causes of blanching of the fingers. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for blanching of the fingers, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Avoid smoking .

Avoid exposure to cold in any form. Wear mittens or gloves outdoors and when handling ice or frozen food. Avoid chilling, which may happen following any active recreational sport. Wear comfortable, roomy shoes and wool socks. When outside, always wear shoes.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:

• fingers change color and the cause is not known.
• fingers or toes turn black or the skin ulcerates.

What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting change in finger color in detail may include:

• time pattern
  • Did the fingers suddenly change color?
  • Has the color change occurred before?
  • Is this the first time that the fingers have changed color?

• aggravating factors
  • Does cold or emotion cause the fingers to turn white (blanching)?
  • Does cold or emotion cause the fingers to turn blue ( cyanosis )?

• quality
  • The finger(s) change to what color?
  • Do they turn red?
  • Do they turn blue?
  • Do they turn white
  • Do they look black or gray?

• aggravating factors
  • Did this occur after anesthesia?
  • Do you smoke?

• other
  • What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there finger pain ?
  • Is there arm pain?
  • Is there a change in the texture of the skin?
  • Is there loss of hair on the arm or hands?

The physical examination will include thorough examination of the hands, arms, and fingers.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• blood studies (such as CBC or blood differential )
• X-ray of the hands and feet

Intervention:
Vasodilator drugs to dilate small arteries and improve circulation may be prescribed. Surgery to sever the sympathetic nerves to the affected extremities (for Raynaud's phenomenon ) is an option that may relieve symptoms for 1 or 2 years before they recur.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to change in finger color to your personal medical record.