Right hand swelling is more of a symptom of some other medical conditions, instead of being a condition in itself. This article helps you understand the factors responsible for it, and a variety of ways to deal with it.
Left or right hand swelling can be possibly linked with a myriad of diseases. The swelling may be of an acute form, or it can be long-lasting. Fluid retention, inflammation, injury, or diseases affecting the joints or tissues of the hands, are known to be the main reasons. The upcoming paragraphs give you an elaborate explanation of the causal factors of this puffiness, and what can be done to manage the symptoms and keeping them from getting aggravated.
Possible Causes
One of the most common bothersome symptoms expecting mothers face during pregnancy is hand swelling. Now, this is related to fluid retention. Pregnancy triggers the body to retain more water than required, hence the hand swells up. Also, alteration in the chemistry of the blood is associated with it. Other factors, which are related to fluid retention can be due to the malfunctioning of organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
One of the consequences can be accumulation of fluid in certain parts of the body, including hands. Now, as aforesaid, inflammation caused by certain medical conditions is also responsible for swollen hands. Arthritis, for example, causes the hands, finger, knees, wrists, and ankles too, to get swollen.
Other Causes
- Abnormal production of blood cells in the body. It causes small blood vessels to get clotted, eventually causing this condition.
- Allergic reactions trigger the release of histamines, which may also cause the hands to get swollen. Other body parts may be affected too.
- Hand injuries are some obvious causes. This is again, related to retention of fluid in the injured area.
- In overweight people, fluid circulation does not work optimally. This causes fluid to accumulate in hands and feet.
- High sodium diet, frostbite, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), sprains in hands in muscles, strains, and carpal tunnel syndrome have also been detected to be the responsible factors for swollen hands, and other body parts.
Treatment
- While sitting or standing, keep your hand in an elevated position. Do this for 30 minutes, three to four times a day.
- Improve fluid circulation by using compression gloves.
- Massage provides a great deal of help. It is one of the best ways to improve fluid circulation in the body.
- Make an ice compress by filling a plastic bag with some ice cubes. Now, wrap this bag with a towel and apply it on the swollen hand. It is advisable to apply for 15 minutes, and let the skin re-warm, and reapply it. Never apply the ice directly to the skin, lest it may cause nerve damage.
- Lessen the intake of salt in your food if you are prone to develop swelling in your hands and feet. Also, prefer fruits and vegetables over fatty and animal-based foods.
- While recovering from this condition, mind you environment. Avoid exposing yourself to too hot or freezing temperatures. Take adequate measures to maintain normal temperature as far as possible.
Swelling in any other part of the body, when caused by a mild injury, an insect bite, mild muscle strain, usually resolves on its own, and self-care measures at home are good enough for the treatment. However, as you can infer from the above description, diseases of the heart, kidneys, liver also cause the same.
So, if you notice that the swelling is accompanied by other signs, like shortness of breath, weight gain, nausea/vomiting, or is persistent, then do not ponder further, but make an appointment with a doctor. A professional diagnosis can rule out serious conditions and make way for a prompt medical treatment.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
