Swollen fingers can be caused by edema or injury, which causes fluid to accumulate in various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, ankles and legs. Edema can be caused by pregnancy, excessive sodium intake, medications or particular health problems, such as kidney problems, lymphatic system complications, or heart failure. Here are some helpful tips for reducing finger swelling.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Diagnosing Swelling
Step 1. Assess your diet and sodium intake
Excessive consumption of salty foods can promote swelling in the fingers. Some of the most sodium-rich foods are highly processed foods, such as:
- Canned soups.
- Cured meat.
- Frozen pizza.
- Soy sauce.
- Cottage cheese.
- Olives.
Step 2. Look for any injuries that may have caused the swelling
Accidents are the main causes: blood accumulates in the affected area, causing swelling. Treat the injury by applying ice (to constrict blood vessels), then use heat (to help drain fluid).
If the bruise or injury lasts more than 2 weeks, symptoms are becoming more severe or frequent, or signs of a skin infection develop, see your doctor right away
Step 3. Determine if it may be an allergic reaction
When the body comes into contact with something it is allergic to, it releases histamine into the bloodstream. You can take an antihistamine to reduce swelling. If you experience severe breathing difficulties following an allergic reaction, see your doctor immediately.
Step 4. Weigh yourself to see if obesity is causing the swelling
Obesity slows down the lymphatic system resulting in edema of the hands and feet. If you think the swelling is due to this cause, consult your doctor or dietician to come up with a weight loss plan.
Step 5. Ask your doctor if you have an infection
For example, you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome or infectious cellulitis. Some bacterial infections affecting the hands enter the bloodstream and lymph nodes, so if you suspect this cause, see your doctor.
Part 2 of 2: Understanding Therapeutic Options
Step 1. Move your swollen fingers
This way you can improve blood circulation locally and absorb excess fluid. By putting them in activity, you will allow the blood to circulate better in the affected area, creating the necessary pressure to drain the accumulated liquid. A simple exercise such as typing on a keyboard, flexing your fingers or using them to dress up or prepare breakfast may be enough. Any movement will help reduce swelling.
- If you don't have time to train normally, you might want to take a quick 15-minute walk every day. It takes you 10-15 minutes to get a general improvement in circulation. As you walk, swing your arms or move your hands up and down.
- Those who suffer from obesity are more prone to edema because the lymphatic system works more slowly. If it returns to normal function, the swelling may subside. A constant physical exercise, a healthy diet based on fruits, vegetables and proteins, together with an increased consumption of water can promote a complete recovery of the lymphatic system.
Step 2. Lift your hands and fingers
The swelling could be caused by poor circulation or blood stagnation. By lifting them, you will allow the accumulated blood to drain.
- In case of severe edema, raise the swollen fingers above the height of the heart for 30 minutes, at least 3-4 times a day. Doctors recommend keeping your hands in this position even while sleeping.
- In case of moderate swelling, you just need to keep them up for a short time.
- Try raising your hands above your head, interlacing your fingers, then lower them behind your neck. At this point, move your head back to create some resistance. After about 30 seconds, free your hands, shake them and repeat the exercise a few more times.
Step 3. Rub swollen fingers
Massage them with movements directed towards the heart. Rub them hard and firmly. This massage stimulates the muscles and circulation of the hands, making the accumulated fluids, responsible for swelling, flow out.
- A professional foot and hand massage is also recommended. It is generally within everyone's reach.
- Massage your hands. With the thumb and forefinger of one hand, gently grab the fingers of the other. Massage them from the base of the palm to the tip, then switch hands.
Step 4. Put on a pair of compression gloves
They exert pressure on the hands and fingers, preventing the accumulation of fluids.
Step 5. Limit your salt intake
Salt promotes water retention, which can also affect the fingers. Limiting your sodium intake will reduce the tendency to retain fluids in the body. If, by decreasing the salt, the dishes seem less tasty, you can use other condiments to flavor them.
Step 6. Maintain a moderate temperature at home and in the office
It will promote blood circulation. Keep it constant to reduce swelling of the fingers caused by severe temperature changes.
- Studies show that hot packs, showers, and baths increase swelling, even in the hands.
- Exposure to very low temperatures can also increase swelling. Conversely, if it is caused by a bruise, you can relieve it with the cold (by applying some ice wrapped in a cloth).
Step 7. Treat yourself with medication
Diuretics often reduce water retention in patients suffering from edema and swelling. You can relieve the problem in your hands by taking the medicines prescribed by your doctor.
Advice
- Put an ice pack on the swollen area. If it does not absorb it could be a sprain, burn or fracture.
- Do not apply heat until the swelling has completely disappeared, or it may make your condition worse.
- Here is a remedy for some relief: pull the middle finger, then the ring finger, the index finger and finally the little finger. Finish with your thumb. This exercise can help you reduce pain in your fingers, including that caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.
Warnings
- Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before starting any treatment to reduce swelling of their hands or fingers. In these cases it is not recommended to take diuretics.
- If the swelling persists, you don't find relief and it looks pretty severe, contact your doctor right away. Severe or continuous edema can be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as cancer, heart failure, or other health problems that require immediate treatment.
