Hand petechiae or hand purpura, which are bursts of blood vessels in the hands, happen when tiny blood vessels under the skin rupture and release blood. This can lead to the emergence of small red, purple, or brown dots on the hands. Although it can be concerning, burst blood vessels in the hands are generally benign and typically go away without any intervention. Nevertheless, it is crucial to know the reasons and possible factors that could contribute to this occurrence, as well as what steps to take if it happens.
Reasons behind the bursting blood vessels in hands:
- A sudden forceful blow or injury to the hands, such as striking or colliding with a solid object, can result in the rupture of blood vessels.
- Engaging in strenuous activities like lifting heavy objects or tightly gripping can result in burst blood vessels caused by excessive force applied to the hands.
- As people get older, their blood vessels become weaker and more likely to rupture, which can increase the likelihood of burst blood vessels occurring in the hands.
- Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may cause the blood vessels in the hands to become weaker, increasing the likelihood of them bursting.
- A heightened possibility of blood vessels bursting in the hands can be attributed to specific medical conditions like hypertension or disorders affecting blood clotting.
What to Do:
- Using ice, either in the form of an ice pack or a cold compress, on the affected area can aid in decreasing swelling and inflammation.
- Lifting the hands above the level of the heart can relieve swelling and decrease blood circulation to the affected area if there are burst blood vessels.
- Take a break and refrain from putting too much pressure on your hands: giving your hands enough time to rest and avoiding any activities that could worsen or cause injury can help with the recovery process.
- If you are participating in activities that may cause hand injury, like sports or manual work, it is important to wear protective gloves as they can lower the chances of blood vessels bursting.
- Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is recommended if burst blood vessels occur regularly in the hands, are accompanied by intense pain, or are part of a wider medical issue. This will ensure a thorough evaluation and appropriate advice.
It is important to understand that burst blood vessels in the hands are usually not something to worry about. However, if they become recurring or are accompanied by other worrisome symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice in order to eliminate the possibility of any underlying medical issues or complications.
