Swollen Hands – Possible Causes

If only one finger is swollen, it may be due to a bump or blow. However, if the swelling lasts longer than five days, you should see a doctor.

Do you sometimes have swollen hands, maybe even a darker shade. The reasons for this are very diverse. Most of the time it isn’t serious, but swollen hands  can be a sign of illness. We’ll explain more to you today.

Swollen hands – why?

Swollen fingers are very common.  A tingling sensation can also often be felt. The reason for this is impaired blood circulation, especially when moving, as the heart then works harder.

A swollen finger can also be caused by an injury or inflammation. Joint disease should be ruled out.

• Injury : did you bump or crush yourself somewhere? Often it happens without you even realizing it. The swelling is not noticed until hours later.
• Injury to the cartilage or ligaments : Having to do the same activity over and over can also lead to swelling at the end of the day. The cause of this can be a cartilage injury.
• Bursitis : This type of inflammation is very painful, the hands swell especially around the joints.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome : Another very painful disease. Women are particularly often affected here. The pressure on the nerve causes swelling and loss of sensitivity. A momentary freeze can occur.
• Upper leg : A benign lump on a joint that causes the fingers to swell.

• Inflammation : This shouldn’t be ruled out – Streptococcus aureus bacteria are responsible and can cause hand swelling. Inflammation is very painful, and it can lead to a fever.
• Inflammation of the nail bed : this is obvious. This usually affects a finger or the nail and the surrounding area, which can also be very painful. This can also lead to pus.
• Rheumatoid arthritis : This is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. The joints swell and the patient experiences severe pain. The symptoms usually begin on the hands.
• Septic arthritis : This type of inflammation is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, you should be examined by a specialist.

If one or more fingers become swollen, pay special attention to the symptoms.

Just a finger or the whole hand?

The latter is usually a circulatory disorder or a carpal tunnel syndrome. If it’s just a finger, watch out for the nail. Have you been injured or have you got an insect bite? If the swelling is not better after 5 days, you should definitely see a doctor.

How can the swelling be reduced?

Before going to the doctor, you can use the following home remedies at home:

1. Cold and warm baths with rosemary water:

Rosemary is especially good for reducing swelling in joints. Make a tea with 2 sprigs of rosemary. Soak your fingers in the warm infusion for 3 minutes. Then put your fingers in a cold water bath for a short time – alternating often. The change in temperature improves blood circulation and the fingers swell. Finally, a relaxing massage with rosemary oil helps.

2. If you suspect a bacterial infection, rub a clove of garlic on the affected area.

Garlic has an antibacterial effect and soothes inflammation.

3. Ginger dressing :

Ginger is also good as an anti-inflammatory. Grate some ginger and make some tea. Soak your fingers in it for 2 minutes. You can use the cooked ginger as a wrap. You will quickly feel relief.