Swollen hand with no obvious injury

Check whether the swelling is in one finger, several joints, the wrist or the whole hand. Repeated keyboard use, lifting, sports or sleep position can irritate tissues even when there was no single accident. Inflammatory conditions can cause joint swelling, warmth and stiffness, often more noticeable after rest; rheumatoid arthritis is one condition that presents with swollen, tender joints. Infection is more concerning when skin is red or hot, pain is escalating, or you feel feverish. Hand swelling can also occur alongside wider fluid retention. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

Remove rings, loosen anything tight, and rest from activities that provoke pressure or gripping. Elevate the hand while sitting and move the fingers gently several times through a comfortable range. Keep the skin clean and look for a small cut, bite or puncture. A wrapped cool pack can ease discomfort for a short period. Note whether the swelling changes during the day and whether both hands or other joints are involved. Book a clinical review if it does not settle, keeps recurring, or interferes with writing, dressing or sleep.

Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, a hot red hand, pus, fever, red streaking, or feeling faint or unwell. Prompt assessment is also needed for new numbness, blue or pale fingers, or inability to bend or straighten them. These signs can indicate a problem requiring treatment without delay, even when no injury was recalled.

Ask what examination findings matter, whether you need imaging or tests, and how long to monitor the swelling. Tell the clinician about new medicines, recent illness, bites, skin breaks, work tasks and any morning stiffness.