The palm is often seen as a mirror reflecting the body’s overall health. Different areas of the palm correspond to different internal organs, and sometimes these visible changes can even signal serious illnesses, including cancer. In medicine, there is a saying: “Diagnosis through the hands.” By carefully observing a patient’s palms, doctors can gain valuable clues to aid diagnosis and treatment.

4 Palm Signs That May Warn of Dangerous Diseases — Even Cancer

In 2022, a study jointly published by Fudan University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences in the renowned journal Cell revealed that the appearance of the palms may contain important health information.

Normally, both the palms and the backs of the hands appear light red with even, healthy skin lines. Fingernails are usually pink or light red, without prominent horizontal or vertical ridges or white spots. However, if you notice any of the following unusual signs on your palms, you should pay close attention.

1. Shrunken and Wrinkled Fingertips

If your fingertips appear unusually shriveled or wrinkled, it may indicate endocrine disorders caused by chronic kidney disease, which can reduce the amount of water metabolized through cells.

2. Abnormally Red Palms

If your palms become flushed and red, and the redness fades slowly after pressing down on the skin, it could be related to liver diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.

3. Pale Palms

When the palms turn pale or show unevenly distributed white spots, accompanied by symptoms like acid reflux or frequent hiccups, it could signal gastrointestinal issues such as stomach ulcers or gastritis.

4. Bulging Blue Veins

If the veins on your palms suddenly become visible, blue, and raised — with pulsations or sensations of irregular heartbeat — this could be an early warning sign of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction (heart attack), or other cardiovascular problems.

If you experience any of these symptoms, pay close attention to your body. Seek medical advice promptly to undergo examination and treatment before the condition worsens.