Can pain from splinter hemorrhages spread to other fingers and increase heart rate?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 19 year old female weighing 100 lbs and 5.6 feet tall. I have had splinter hemorrhages that started in my index finger and now has spread to my thumb, but the pain in spreading to four fingers of my right hand. It becomes unbearable at times when I wake up or when I go into cold environments. I have no heart problems that I know of besides an abnormally high heart rate for the past two years, which has been dismissed by a doctor as nothing serious. I am concerned because of the pain it has caused me, and I am certain I have not had any trauma to my nails. It is spreading with time. I am not taking any regular medicine except Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo (birth control).

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There is a possibility of limb ischemia that is obstruction of blood flow to your hand. As it is progressive, it is likely due to an embolus (clot) getting dislodged and landing in your hand or may be due to local clot formation. I suggest you visit your specialist doctor and get the following tests done. Doppler ultrasound of the arm, forearm, and hand.CAT scan might also be required. Echocardiogram, to look for any clot in the heart or vegetations in the heart, Pulse rate. Oral birth control pill could have a role to play, as it makes blood thicker. Limb ischemia is an emergency, and it is crucial that we rule out this possibility as the consequences may not be good. So, visit ER (emergency room) and get yourself examined as soon as possible. Is there any discoloration like bluish tinge or erythematous coloration? Can you upload the photo of your hand?