How to relieve swollen hands

Swelling may follow an injury, repetitive use, heat, infection, or inflammation in the joints. A distal radius fracture can cause swelling around the wrist and hand after a fall or impact. Rheumatoid arthritis can produce inflammatory swelling and stiffness, often involving more than one joint. The timing, symmetry, skin changes, and ability to move the fingers provide useful clues.

Take off rings, bracelets, and gloves before swelling increases. Rest the hand above heart level when possible, and gently open and close the fingers without forcing a painful range. After a recent injury, a wrapped cool pack may help briefly; protect the skin and avoid placing ice directly on it. Do not tightly bandage the hand or massage an area that is hot, red, or very tender.

Get urgent help if the hand becomes blue, pale, cold, numb, severely painful, visibly deformed, or difficult to move. Prompt assessment is also needed for rapidly increasing swelling, spreading redness, fever, pus, or swelling after a significant injury. If swelling continues or keeps returning, book an examination to identify the cause.

Ask whether you need an X-ray or other examination, how much hand use is appropriate, and which medicines are suitable for you. Tell the clinician when the swelling began, whether both hands are affected, and whether morning stiffness or a recent injury is present.