What could be causing my hands to swell and what are the recommended actions?

If your hands are swelling, it could be due to various reasons such as temperature, exercise, diet, medications, or health conditions.

Other things, in addition to your rings not fitting correctly, may be noticeable.

Two doctors were consulted by Planet Chronicle Digital to understand the causes of hand swelling and the available treatment options.

Here’s what you need to know.

What causes hand swelling?

Fluid accumulation in soft tissue is the most common cause of hand swelling.

Edema, which is characterized by soft tissue swelling, is not always a cause for concern and can occur due to weather changes or fluid shifts in the body, according to Amy Kehl, M.D., RhMSUS, a board-certified rheumatologist with Saint John's Physician Partners in Santa Monica, California.

According to Kehl, many patients experience some level of soft tissue swelling or edema during hot weather and after exercise.

She pointed out that fluid shifts can occur with excessive salt intake, resulting in swelling in the hands or feet.

"Certain medications can contribute to soft tissue swelling in the hands or feet."

Certain medications, including blood pressure medications like amlodipine, steroids such as Prednisone or Medrol, and hormone treatments, can cause soft tissue swelling in the hands or feet, Kehl stated.

What are the more serious causes of hand swelling?

If a person experiences persistent and non-reversible hand or foot swelling, accompanied by leg swelling, elevated blood pressure, and shortness of breath, medical attention should be sought, advised Kehl.

It is crucial to undergo a medical evaluation to assess both kidney and cardiac function, as swelling in the hands or feet may indicate kidney dysfunction, protein loss in the urine, or cardiac dysfunction, she warned.

"An echocardiogram may be ordered by your doctor to evaluate your kidney function, urine studies, or in certain instances."

If cardiac dysfunction is causing excess fluid, diuretics may be necessary, she stated.

Lymphedema, which can result from surgery such as a lymph node resection for breast cancer treatment, is another possible cause of fluid build-up, according to Kehl.

The doctor suggested treating this with local lymphatic drainage, arm elevation, compression sleeves, and exercise.

"Patients should seek medical attention right away if new and asymmetric swelling and pain develops."

Individuals should also be cognizant of other symptoms.

"If hand swelling is accompanied by joint pains, it may suggest an underlying inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, according to Kehl. However, an examination is necessary to differentiate between soft tissue swelling and joint swelling."

Patients should also be aware if the swelling is asymmetric.

If new and asymmetric swelling and pain develop, it could indicate a more serious condition, such as a blood clot, and patients should seek immediate medical attention, advised Kehl.

If a patient notices swelling in their hand in conjunction with facial or lip swelling, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention, she stated.

What are some ways to reduce hand swelling?

Typically, if the hand swelling is attributed to "benign causes," it is reversible, according to Kehl.

Elevating the hands and performing arm circles can increase blood flow to the hands, thereby reducing hand swelling after exercising, as suggested by her.

It may be necessary to review your medication list with your medical provider to identify any potential drug interactions.

"The swelling should subside when the offending medication is discontinued, according to Kehl," he said.

Diet should also be monitored.

"Staying well-hydrated can help keep fluids circulating."

The expert advised that maintaining the proper balance of salt and water is crucial, and reducing salt intake and following a low-sodium diet may be necessary for certain patients.

Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as movement, can help alleviate swelling.

Beth Oller, M.D., a family physician with Rooks County Health Center in Stockton, Kansas, advised Planet Chronicle Digital to stretch both arms up, move your hands and wrists, and make fists several times.

Removing jewelry and tight clothing while exercising can help prevent swelling due to temperature changes, she suggested.

"Staying well-hydrated can also help keep fluids circulating," Oller added.

Another common cause of swelling is pregnancy, and Oller suggested that moving the extremities can help alleviate it.

If sudden or extreme swelling during pregnancy occurs, immediately consult your physician as it may indicate high blood pressure.

For more Health articles, visit planetchronicle.net/health.