36-Year-Old AFAB Concerned About Possible Circulatory Issue
Hello everyone! I'm truly grateful for this community's presence. Here’s my background: I am 35 years old, turning 36 in March, and I identify as AFAB, residing in Chicago. Due to family circumstances, with most passing away or being estranged, I lack the genetic medical background that would be beneficial to know. Recently, I snapped a picture while holding my sketchbook, and I noticed that my index finger appeared to be a mix of red and pale shades. I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for Tuesday, but I am keen to gather any insights beforehand and would appreciate suggestions on specific questions to discuss. Current medications include: 30 mg of Adderall instant release taken twice daily. In terms of supplements (all at recommended dosages), I take melatonin, magnesium glycinate, and cannabis each day. My diagnoses include: AuDHD, PMDD or perimenopause, general anxiety, C-PTSD, and DID. Conditions that have been ruled out are thyroid issues, complex anemia, pre-diabetes, and celiac disease. A few physical stats: I stand at 5’2” and weigh 140 pounds. In these challenging times, my underemployment coupled with my strong empathy has resulted in significant stress stemming from multiple areas. All my lab results are normal except for a slight elevation in LDL cholesterol, which is just above the standard range. I walk about a mile each week. My healthcare team includes a psychiatrist, therapist, general practitioner, and dentist. Thank you for your support and any advice you can provide!
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 12:01:10 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your concerns; it’s clear you’re being proactive about your health, which is commendable. The color changes in your finger could indicate a few potential issues related to circulatory health, but it’s excellent that you already have an appointment where you can discuss this further.
Main Points
- The color change in your finger may indicate circulatory issues, possibly related to peripheral circulation or vascular response.
- It's crucial to monitor any associated symptoms and discuss specifics with your healthcare provider.
Explanation
The mix of red and pale shades in your index finger might be due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Poor circulation: This could result from conditions affecting blood flow or vascular health.
- Raynaud's phenomenon: A condition where small blood vessels in extremities overreact to cold or stress, causing color changes.
- Nerve-related issues: Sometimes, nerve problems can cause unusual sensations or color changes.
Given that most of your lab results are normal but you have a slight elevation in LDL cholesterol, it’s worth discussing how that might impact your overall circulatory health too, as maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is important.
Next Steps
- Observe Symptoms: Keep an eye on other symptoms that might accompany the color change, like numbness, tingling, or pain. Note when and where these changes occur (e.g., during stress or cold).
- Prepare Questions for Your Appointment: Consider asking:
- What could possibly be causing the color changes in my finger?
- Should I be concerned about any potential circulatory issues?
- How can my medication or supplements impact circulation?
- What lifestyle changes can I adopt to improve my circulation and manage my cholesterol?
- Increase Physical Activity: Since you mentioned walking about a mile a week, gradually increase your physical activity levels if possible (e.g., aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week). Even light activities can improve circulation significantly.
Stay patient as you navigate these concerns, and know that seeking information and support is a strong step toward maintaining your health. Let me know if you need more detailed guidance!
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