In general, swollen fingers can be caused by
overall fluid retention
, such as during premenstrual syndrome or pregnancy. If just one finger is swollen, the possible causes include trauma, infection, or inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.
Can dehydration cause swollen fingers?
Dehydration does not typically make fingers swell
. In fact, drinking excessive amounts of water, perhaps during a marathon or other strenuous exercise, can lead to hyponatremia, the retention of too much water causing unusually low sodium levels. Hyponatremia can result in swollen fingers.
How do you get rid of a swollen finger?
- Keep your hand/arm elevated. If you keep your hand down, gravity is keeping the extra fluid in your hand. …
- Apply ice to the affected area.
- Wear a splint or compressive wrap. Do not apply too tightly. …
- Take anti inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen.
When should I go to the doctor for a swollen hand?
Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have hand swelling along with other serious symptoms including:
High fever
(higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit) Red and warm skin. Unexplained weight gain (may be from excessive fluid buildup)
Will a swollen finger go away?
Most of the time a jammed finger
will get better on its own within a week or two
. But even with treatment, your finger may stay swollen or sensitive for many months. During recovery, try to use the finger as little as possible while it heals. Take a break from sports or other activities that could worsen your injury.
What conditions cause swollen fingers?
- Fluid Retention. Swelling happens when body fluids collect in tissues or joints. …
- Exercise and Heat. Your heart, lungs, and muscles need oxygen to fuel your workout. …
- Injury. You may have a torn a ligament or sprained your finger. …
- Infections. …
- Arthritis. …
- Gout. …
- Medicine. …
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
How can I reduce water retention in my fingers?
Lowering sodium intake
is one of the most common treatments for conditions that cause water retention. In fact, researchers explain that in some cases, sodium restriction and elevation of the extremities is the best treatment option.
Why are my hands puffy when I wake up?
Causes for Swollen Hands in the Morning
Arthritis
is a common cause of swollen hands in the morning and can come in many different forms such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. If you are eating too much salt, it could be causing your body to retain water and, you guessed it, causing those swollen hands.
What is puffy hand syndrome?
Puffy hand syndrome develops
after long-term intravenous drug addiction
. It is characterized by a nonpitting edema, affecting the dorsal side of fingers and hands with puffy aspect. Frequency and severity of the complications of this syndrome are rarely reported.
When should I be concerned about swelling?
Swelling is a
sign of built up fluid
, which may mean you have a disease in one of these organs. Swelling by itself is not usually a sign of heart, liver, or kidney disease. However, people with swelling that also experience a loss of appetite, weight gain, and fatigue should talk to a doctor.
Is the swelling of a part of the body?
Edema
is swelling that is caused by fluid trapped in your body’s tissues. Edema happens most often in the feet, ankles, and legs, but can affect other parts of the body, such as the face, hands, and abdomen. It can also involve the entire body.
How long does a swollen finger last?
Swelling may occur and last for
a few weeks
. The swelling should go down after a few weeks, but the swelling may persist depending on the severity of the injury. You may even notice decreased pain and increased mobility even though your finger is still swollen.
How do I reduce swelling quickly?
Cold Therapy
Applying an ice-pack or cold compress to an injury
is the fastest way to deal with immediate swelling. It helps reduce swelling by restricting blood flow to the area and slowing down cellular metabolism. Cold therapy systems and ice baths are other methods you can use to apply cold to the area.
How do I get swelling to go down?
- Rest and protect a sore area. …
- Elevate the injured or sore area on pillows while applying ice and any time you are sitting or lying down. …
- Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time. …
- A low-sodium diet may help reduce swelling.
What do fat fingers indicate?
Dactylitis refers to
swelling
in the fingers and toes that can cause them to take on a sausage-like appearance. Dactylitis can be a symptom of several different medical conditions, including some forms of arthritis, tuberculosis (TB), and syphilis.
Why do fingers swell when walking?
Exercise increases blood flow to your heart and lungs, as well as to the muscles you’re working. This can reduce blood flow to your hands, making them cooler. In turn,
the blood vessels in your hands may react by opening wider
— which could lead to hand swelling.
