What should you know about an itchy and swollen hand?

Itching points toward involvement of the skin, while swelling can come from fluid or inflammation in the skin, soft tissues, or a joint. New soap, detergent, gloves, plants, metals, or insect bites may trigger irritation or contact dermatitis. A flare of an inflammatory condition can affect several hand joints, and an injury can cause swelling even when itching is unrelated. Hand swelling itself is a symptom, not a diagnosis.

Notice whether one or both hands are affected, when the change began, and whether there is a rash, warmth, pain, stiffness, discharge, or reduced movement. A clinician may examine the skin, circulation, sensation, and joints to identify the pattern.

Remove any new product or jewellery that may be touching the hand, rinse gently with lukewarm water, and avoid scratching. A cool, clean compress may ease irritation. Keep the hand elevated when comfortable, and avoid tight rings if swelling is increasing. Do not apply a strong cream or take anti-inflammatory medicine unless a pharmacist or clinician confirms it is suitable for you.

Record possible exposures and take a photo if the appearance changes. Arrange medical advice if symptoms do not settle, keep returning, or interfere with gripping, sleep, or normal hand movement.

Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, breathing difficulty, faintness, rapidly spreading hives, severe pain, a blue or pale hand, or sudden loss of sensation or movement. Prompt assessment is also needed for a hot, very tender hand with fever, pus, red streaking, or fast-spreading redness. After a fall or blow, marked swelling, deformity, or inability to use the hand needs evaluation.

Could this be contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction, infection, joint inflammation, or an injury? Which products or medicines should I avoid? What signs would mean I need same-day care?