Purpley skin

[melsteblyk]

I find that when I am cold, which is most of the time, my skin gets a purple honeycomb look. All of the scars I have on my legs turn very deep purple and it is not very attractive. My knuckles turn dark purple and my hands are usually clamy. I know I dont have great circulation but I try exercise a lot and I find that my skin ton will even out afterward but will only a last short period of time until my body starts to cool down. Is there anything I can do or am I stuck with this for life;(

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From your symptoms Raynaud’s disease and peripheral vascular disease are important possibilities. Raynaud’s disease is a vascular disorder that affects blood flow to the extremities which include the fingers, toes, nose and ears when exposed to temperature changes or stress. This causes redness, blueness or swelling of the skin.

To confirm the diagnosis, I would suggest you to consult a vascular surgeon. Different investigations like blood sugar levels,Hb A1c levels of blood, vascular ultrasound or vascular Doppler may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment will depend on the confirmation of diagnosis. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[BeeFree]

I knew a girl who dealt with the same thing. She wasn't very self conscious about it-- in fact, she found it quite funny. But your right it all has to do with circulation, and this is most noticeable on fair skin. Exercise is a great way to get the blood pumping and staying warm will prevent the purple tone. Also try stay hydrated-- warm drinks like herbal teas are great. And there are numerous supplements that keep circulation is top shape like niacin, ginger and cayenne pepper--  all excellent for stimulating blood flow. Give them a try.