What should you know about nighttime swelling of hands and feet?

Swelling may be more noticeable after a day of standing, sitting or using the hands. Heat, tight clothing, salt-heavy meals, injury and inflammation can contribute. Rheumatoid arthritis may cause swollen, stiff hand joints, while a distal radius fracture can leave hand swelling after a wrist injury. Swelling in both hands and feet can also need assessment beyond the musculoskeletal system.

Record whether it affects one or both sides, whether the skin is hot or red, and whether it improves by morning. A sudden change is more concerning than a familiar, mild pattern.

Remove tight rings, watches and footwear before swelling increases. Elevate the affected limbs when resting, move the fingers, ankles and toes gently, and avoid remaining still for long periods. Do not massage an area that is hot, very painful or newly swollen until a clinician has advised you.

Arrange an assessment if swelling keeps returning, limits grip or walking, or follows an injury. Bring a medication list and note recent travel, illness, new products or changes in activity.

Seek urgent care for sudden one-sided swelling with severe pain, a cold or pale limb, chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, or swelling with facial or tongue enlargement. Prompt review is also needed for fever, spreading redness, a very hot joint, or swelling after significant trauma.

Ask whether the pattern suggests joint inflammation, injury, fluid retention or another cause. Ask which tests are appropriate, whether compression or exercise is suitable, and which changes should trigger urgent help.