Why do hands turn yellow after roasting by fire?

Generally, yellowing of the hands after exposure to heat (such as from a fire) may be caused by temporary local pigmentation, heat-induced vascular changes, carotenemia, hepatitis, or biliary obstruction. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Temporary Local Pigmentation

When hands are exposed to warm environments for prolonged periods during heating, the activity of melanocytes can increase, leading to temporary accumulation of pigment in the skin, causing the hands to appear yellow. Reducing time spent near heat sources, avoiding prolonged close contact with heat, and applying sun protection when outdoors can help the pigmentation gradually fade.

2. Heat-Induced Vascular Changes

High temperatures cause blood vessels in the hands to dilate, altering blood flow velocity and the oxygen-binding state of hemoglobin, which may result in a yellowish skin tone. Immediately moving away from the heat source and rinsing the hands with lukewarm water can help restore normal circulation. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat in the future.

3. Carotenemia

Consuming large amounts of foods rich in carotene—such as carrots and pumpkin—recently, combined with increased metabolism after heat exposure, may lead to carotene deposition in the skin of the hands, resulting in yellow discoloration. Reduce intake of high-carotene foods, drink more water to promote metabolism, and take vitamin C tablets, vitamin E soft capsules, or compound vitamin B tablets as directed by a physician.

4. Hepatitis

Hepatitis caused by viral infection or drug-induced liver injury leads to impaired liver function and abnormal bilirubin metabolism, resulting in elevated blood bilirubin levels. After heat exposure, yellowing of the hands becomes more noticeable, often accompanied by fatigue and poor appetite. Under medical guidance, medications such as entecavir tablets, silibinin capsules, or diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules may be prescribed. Avoid alcohol and overexertion.

5. Biliary Obstruction

Biliary obstruction due to gallstones or tumors blocks bile drainage, causing bile to reflux into the bloodstream and resulting in generalized jaundice. After heat exposure, hand yellowing becomes particularly prominent, often accompanied by darkened urine and abdominal pain. Immediate medical attention is required. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid capsules, ademetionine enteric-coated tablets, or anti-inflammatory and cholagogue tablets should be taken under medical supervision. In some cases, procedures like biliary endoscopy for stone removal may be necessary.

In daily life, control the duration and distance of heat exposure to avoid prolonged skin heating; maintain a balanced diet without excessive consumption of any single food type; undergo regular health check-ups focusing on liver and biliary health; and seek prompt medical care if hand yellowing worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms.