Clubbing of the fingers means the ends of the fingers are bulging, soft and sometimes reddened with wide, distorted fingernails that slope downward and are shaped like small spoons.
If you notice clubbing of the fingers, you should contact your doctor or a health provider because it could be a sign of a serious health problem.
There are two types of clubbed fingers: primary (hereditary), which means a lifelong clubbed appearance of the fingers that is not associated with any health problems.
The other type is called secondary clubbing, which causes a gradual change in the appearance of your fingers and toes over a short period of time.
What causes secondary clubbing?
Secondary clubbing is always a sign of a serious health problem and you should contact a doctor or healthcare provider.
Secondary clubbing of the fingers is usually a sign of a chronic respiratory/lung disease or heart disease.
This sign is also associated with a number of medical conditions that can be harmful that involve the thyroid or digestive system.
The condition occurs because of decreased oxygen levels which causes changes in the tiny blood vessels in the body in response to low oxygen and shows up significantly in the fingers.
The bulging in fingertips is associated with inflammation and the growth of tiny blood vessels and soft tissue in the fingers.
Risk factors associated with clubbing include:
Diagnosis to Assess Underlying Conditions
Primary clubbing of the fingers is harmless. Secondary clubbing of the fingers will require diagnostic tests.
The tests include:
1. Physical examination
2. A pulse oximeter (pulse ox) to measure the oxygen levels in your blood
3. Pulmonary function tests to measure your lung capacity
4. Arterial blood gas, a blood test to measure your 02 level
5. Chest X-ray or chest computerized tomography (CT)
6. Electrocardiogram (EKG) or echocardiogram to assess your heart function
7. Blood tests, including complete blood count (CBC), electrolytes, liver function test, and thyroid test
This has been your Medical Minute.
More Info On the Web
Clubbing of Fingers | very well health
Clubbing of the Fingers or Toes – Healthline
Clubbing of fingers – Mayo Clinic
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