What causes the hands to appear dark purple?

Generally, blackish-purple discoloration of the hands may result from cold exposure, local pressure, Raynaud's syndrome, peripheral arterial disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other causes. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Cold exposure: In low-temperature environments, blood vessels in the hands constrict, reducing blood flow and causing the skin to appear blackish-purple. Removing oneself from the cold environment, soaking the hands in warm water, and promoting circulation can help. Maintain hand warmth regularly, especially by wearing gloves during winter.

2. Local pressure: Prolonged pressure on the hands—such as from carrying heavy objects or sleeping in an improper position—can impair circulation and lead to a blackish-purple appearance. Relieve the pressure, move the hands appropriately to promote blood return, and avoid maintaining the same posture for extended periods that compress the hands.

3. Raynaud's syndrome: When exposed to cold or emotional stress, small arteries in the fingers spasm and constrict, causing the hands to first turn pale, then blue or purple, followed by redness, often accompanied by numbness and tingling pain. Maintain warmth in daily life, avoid emotional excitement, and under professional guidance, medications such as nifedipine controlled-release tablets, flunarizine hydrochloride capsules, or reserpine tablets may be used to relieve symptoms.

4. Peripheral arterial disease: Narrowing or blockage of hand arteries due to atherosclerosis or other factors reduces blood flow, leading to blackish-purple skin discoloration along with pain and sensory abnormalities. Control blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels; quit smoking; engage in moderate exercise; and under professional guidance, use aspirin enteric-coated tablets, clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, or simvastatin tablets to slow disease progression.

5. Systemic lupus erythematosus: Autoimmune dysfunction attacks blood vessels, causing inflammation in hand vessels, resulting in blackish-purple skin discoloration, accompanied by fever, joint pain, rashes, and other symptoms. Avoid sun exposure, ensure adequate rest, and under professional guidance, use prednisone acetate tablets, hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets, or methotrexate tablets to manage the condition.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced diet, moderate physical activity, smoking cessation, and limited alcohol consumption. Regular health check-ups are recommended, especially for individuals with a family history of related diseases, to enable early detection and treatment.