My Fingers Are Puffy After Working Out

Swelling of the hands and feet is a common occurrence during exercise, especially in warm conditions. Your hands may become visibly larger, making any rings you are wearing feel tight on your fingers. This phenomenon occurs because of the effects of exercise and the environment on your body. A few preventive measures can help you avoid the discomfort of puffy fingers caused by working out.

Body's Response

When you work out, the process of producing energy releases heat. Your body will attempt to keep your internal body temperature at a stable level by dissipating some of its heat. It does so by directing blood flow to your extremities, such as your feet and hands. The result is that they may swell and feel puffy. Your hands may look fat as a result. The body takes this action because the proximity of blood vessels at the surface of your skin make it easier to cool your blood through contact with the external environment. The cooled blood can then lower your internal body temperature.

Other Factors

Swelling may be greater when the outside temperature is warm. The need to control your body temperature increases, as does the risk of overheating. Your salt intake may also influence swelling. When you consume sodium, your body retains water to maintain a balance between the concentration of fluids and dissolved particles. When you perspire while working out, you throw off this balance with the loss of electrolytes such as sodium.

When to See the Doctor

If you experience hand swelling, it generally isn't a cause for major concern. It is simply a reaction of your body to your exercise and the external environment. However, if your symptoms are accompanied by nausea, confusion or headache, seek medical attention promptly. You may have hyponatremia, a condition that is caused by an imbalance of salt and water in your body. Electrolytes such as sodium serve several vital roles, including nervous system function and acid balance. Impairment of the sodium-water balance can potentially be life-threatening.

Prevention

Take precautions to prevent puffy hands when working out. If possible, work out during the morning and cooler hours of the day. Prevent any additional discomfort by removing your rings prior to working out. While exercising, redirect blood flow from your hands by swinging your arms or placing them on top of your head. Squeeze your hands periodically to force blood from them. Finally, to prevent dangerous salt imbalances, drink a sports drink that contains electrolytes, especially for long workouts or exercise sessions on hot, humid days.