Causes of Warm Hands

Causes of Warm Hands

Individuals may experience warm hands at various times throughout the day. This change in temperature can be attributed to several factors; however, persistent warmth in the hands might indicate underlying health issues. If there are concerns regarding changes in hand temperature, particularly persistent warmth, consulting a physician is advisable for proper diagnosis based on personal medical history and accompanying symptoms. Below are the potential medical and non-medical causes of warm hands:

Ambient Temperature

The hands are influenced by changes in external temperature, as outlined below:

• Hot weather: High temperatures can lead to a sensation of warmth in the hands, especially when engaging in outdoor activities that cover the hands, such as wearing gloves during gardening, which can cause them to feel hotter than the rest of the body.
• Cold weather: Conversely, cold conditions might also result in warm hands, signifying a contrast between body warmth and the chilly environment. This phenomenon is particularly evident in individuals who wear gloves or those with heightened sensitivity to temperature changes.

Physical Exercise

Engaging in physical activities such as grip exercises or any motions that involve repetitive or intense hand movements, like typing, increases blood flow to the hands, leading to a temporary feeling of warmth for a few minutes post-activity. Importantly, this condition typically does not require medical intervention.

High Blood Pressure

Individuals with hypertension may experience warmth in their hands or feet due to increased blood flow to these areas. Conducting a simple blood pressure measurement can help ascertain whether high blood pressure is contributing to the sensation of warm hands. It is worth noting that most individuals with hypertension remain asymptomatic, and it may take several years for blood pressure levels to rise to critical points that cause noticeable symptoms, which include:

• Headaches.
• Shortness of breath.
• Frequent nosebleeds.
• Dizziness.
• Chest pain.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a type of bacterial infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and can spread rapidly. This condition typically arises when the skin experiences an injury that allows bacteria to enter, such as cuts, even if they are minor. This type of infection can cause warm hands, as body temperature may rise to combat the infection, explaining the warmth and heat in the affected area. Additional symptoms associated with cellulitis in the hands include:

• Swelling in the hands.
• Redness.
• Pain in the area.

Inflammatory Diseases

Inflammation is a common bodily response to infection; however, certain conditions can lead to chronic inflammation in particular body areas, including the hands or wrists. This can result in warmth due to increased blood circulation. Rheumatoid arthritis, a prevalent inflammatory disease, can affect any joint in the body, including those in the hands and fingers, often presenting with warmth alongside other symptoms, such as:

• Swelling and stiffness in the hands and fingers.
• Pain upon touching the joints of the hands and fingers.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel refers to a narrow passage on the palm side of the hand that is surrounded by bones and ligaments. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, and when it becomes compressed, it can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition may result in warm hands and other symptoms affecting the hand and arm, such as:

• Feelings of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand and arm.
• Trembling or shaking of the hands.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is caused by damage to peripheral nerves, those located outside the brain and spinal cord. Its onset can lead to various symptoms affecting the body, particularly the hands and feet, including sensations of warmth or burning in the hands. Additional symptoms may include:

• Numbness or tingling that begins gradually in the hands or feet, potentially spreading upward to include the arms and legs.
• Sharp or burning pain that resembles tingling or throbbing.
• Extreme sensitivity to touch.
• Loss of coordination, which may lead to falls.
• Muscle weakness.
• Pain during normal activities that shouldn’t be painful, such as discomfort in the feet due to pressure or covering with a blanket.
• Paralysis if motor nerves are affected.

Potential causes of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Diabetes, being one of the most common causes.
• Injuries.
• Exposure to certain infections.
• Metabolic disorders.
• Contact with specific toxins.
• Genetic factors.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain in various body regions and general fatigue. In some cases, individuals may experience sensations of burning in the hands and feet, along with other symptoms, such as:

• Headaches.
• Depression.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Anxiety.
• Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Challenges in obtaining restful sleep and waking up unrested.

Other Causes

Other potential causes of warm hands include:

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). This condition is a complex health issue characterized by dysfunctions in both the nervous and immune systems, often resulting in warmth and sweating in affected areas. While it can impact various body parts, the hands are frequently involved.
• Palmar Erythema, a rare dermatological condition that causes redness in the palms and the area surrounding the thumb and little finger. In some cases, the fingers may also appear red. Although it does not typically induce itching in the affected areas, it can cause warmth or a burning sensation in the hands.
• Erythromelalgia, a rare disorder not fully understood, is believed to involve changes in blood vessels often impacting the feet more than the hands. Symptoms may last for a few hours and frequently worsen in hot weather, which include:
• Warmth in the hands.
• Intense burning sensations.
• Redness.
• Itchiness.

When to See a Doctor

If there are concerns regarding warm hands and the underlying causes are unclear, it is vital to consult with a physician, as it could be an early symptom of a serious health issue. Early consultation and appropriate medical care can facilitate easier and more effective treatment if a health problem exists. However, if the cause of the warm hands is likely to be benign, such as exercise or changes in weather, individuals may wait for the warmth to subside. If the warmth persists, a medical consultation is also advisable. Immediate medical attention should be sought if warm hands are accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• Rapid heartbeat.
• Cognitive confusion.
• Fever.