Introduction
Have you ever woken up with swollen hands or fingers that look puffy or shiny? Do you feel like your rings are tighter than usual or your skin leaves a dent when you press it? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience swelling in their hands in the morning due to various reasons.
Depending on the underlying cause and other conditions, it may be transient or persistent, moderate or severe.
In most cases, swelling in the hands is not a serious problem and goes away on its own or with some simple home remedies. However, sometimes it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs attention.
In this blog, we will explore some of the common causes of swollen hands in the morning and how to treat them. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent or reduce swelling in your hands and when to see a doctor. Read on to learn more about this common condition and how to deal with it effectively.
Causes of Swollen hands in the morning
Fluid retention
This is the most common cause of swollen hands. When body tissues contain an excessive amount of fluid, it happens.
Pregnancy
Swollen hands are a common symptom of pregnancy. This is because the body produces more fluid during pregnancy. The swelling usually goes away after the baby is born.
Kidney disease
Kidney disease can also cause fluid to build up in the body.
Injuries
Injuries to the hands, such as sprains or fractures, can also cause swelling.
Insect bites or stings
Insect bites or stings can also cause swelling in the hands.
Symptoms of Swollen hands in the morning
Puffiness
This is the most obvious symptom of swollen hands. The hands may feel puffy or bloated, and the skin may appear stretched.
Pain
Swollen hands can be painful, especially when you move them.
Warmth
Swollen hands may feel warm to the touch. This is because the increased fluid in the tissues causes the blood vessels to dilate, which makes the hands feel warm. Swollen hands may also appear red. This is because the increased blood flow to the tissues causes the skin to become red.
Difficulty moving the hands
Swollen hands may be difficult to move. This is because the increased fluid in the tissues can make the joints stiff and painful.
Treatment of swollen hands in the morning
There are different ways to treat swollen hands in the morning. Some of the common methods are:
Elevating the hands
Holding the hands above the heart level for a few minutes can help reduce swelling by allowing gravity to drain excess fluid from the tissues.
Applying ice pack
Wrapping an ice pack in a towel and applying it to the swollen hands for 10 to 15 minutes can help constrict the blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
Ice can also numb the pain and provide relief. However, ice should not be applied directly to the skin or for too long, as it can cause frostbite or damage the nerves.
Over the counter pain relievers
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help ease the symptoms. These medications can also reduce inflammation and swelling by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause inflammation.
Wear a compression sleeve
Wearing a compression sleeve or glove on the swollen hand can help apply gentle pressure and prevent fluid from accumulating in the tissues. Compression sleeves can also support the joints, muscles and improve blood flow.
When to see a doctor
Even though morning hand swelling is usually not a serious problem, it occasionally can be a sign of an underlying medical disease that has to be treated.
Therefore, if you additionally have any of the following signs or symptoms in addition to swollen hands, it's imperative that you visit a doctor:
- Swelling that lasts more than three days or happens more than three times a month.
- Swelling that is due to trauma or may indicate a fracture.
- Swelling that is very painful or affects your ability to move your fingers.
- Swelling that is accompanied by redness, warmth, pus, or fever, which may suggest an infection.
- Swelling that occurs suddenly and severely, especially if you are pregnant, which may indicate pre-eclampsia, a serious condition that affects blood pressure and kidney function.
- Swelling that is associated with other symptoms such as unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or confusion, which may indicate kidney disease, heart failure, liver disease, or other serious conditions.
Prevention of Swollen Hands
Here are some ways to prevent swollen hands in the morning:
Losing weight
Losing weight can aid in reducing fluid retention.
Exercising regularly
Exercising regularly can help to improve circulation and reduce fluid retention.
Avoiding salty foods
Eating salty foods can cause fluid retention. Hence, abstain from taking salty food in the diet.
Drinking plenty of fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, can help to flush out excess fluid from the body.
Elevate your hands
Elevating your hands above your heart for 30 minutes a few times a day can help to reduce fluid buildup.
Wear loose-fitting clothing
Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help to reduce pressure on the hands and reduce swelling.
Massage your hands
Massaging your hands can help to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Conclusion
Swollen hands in the morning can be a sign of various health conditions, such as arthritis, pregnancy, scleroderma, kidney issues or heat and exercise. Depending on the cause, swollen hands may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, redness or dimpling of the skin.
Remember that, swollen hands in the morning are not always a serious problem, but they can affect one's quality of life and indicate an underlying medical condition that needs attention.
