8. Clubbing of Fingers: The Subtle Hand Change
A seemingly unrelated symptom, clubbing refers to the bulbous, enlarged appearance of the fingertips and a curving of the nails that looks like the inside of a spoon. It’s a physiological response to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, often linked with various lung diseases, including mesothelioma.
While it might seem innocuous, clubbing can be an indicator of an underlying issue. The soft tissue of the fingertips swells due to an increase in tissue, leading to an increased curvature of the nails. It’s not always accompanied by pain, but a noticeable change in the shape and feel of the fingertips is evident.
Given its association with reduced oxygen in the blood, clubbing can be a symptom pointing to respiratory issues. As with all other symptoms, early recognition and consultation with a medical professional can ensure appropriate actions are taken. (8)
