Salt is an ingredient in many prepared foods and a common way of adding flavor to food. Sodium chloride is the scientific name for table salt, although foods may contain other forms of sodium. The recommended limit for sodium in most healthy adults is 2,300 mg per day. An excess amount of salt can increase your risk for certain health problems, such as edema.
Edema
Edema refers to a condition that involves excess fluid in your circulatory system or in the spaces between your cells. Although your lower extremities, including your ankles and feet, are the most common site for fluid retention, this condition can also affect your hands and face. Although certain health conditions, such as thyroid disease and high blood pressure, can increase your risk of developing edema, eating salty foods is a common cause of fluid retention as well.
Hands that swell during exercise may be unrelated to excess levels of sodium in your diet. The reason for exercise-related hand swelling is unknown, although the way your cardiovascular system redirects the flow of blood during exertion may be a key factor. Pulmonary edema refers to a buildup of fluid in your lungs. This type of swelling is usually due to factors other than sodium intake, such as climbing in high altitudes or the presence of cardiovascular disease.
Symptoms
Certain symptoms can accompany swollen hands and feet, including muscle aches, abdominal bloating, shortness of breath and changes in your mental state. The swelling and stretching may cause sensations of pain, itching or warmth. You may cough up blood depending on the severity of the edema.
Intake Guidelines
In addition to playing a major role in fluid retention, too much salt can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of stroke and heart attack. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise people with diabetes, chronic kidney disease or high blood pressure, as well as African Americans and individuals over the age of 51, to limit sodium intake to 1,500 mg per day.
Considerations
If you believe you are experiencing diet-related swelling in your extremities, seasoning your food with herbs and spices rather than shaking on salt may help reduce any accompanying swelling and itching. Consult your doctor if you continue to experience edema after cutting your salt intake. Chronic edema may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical treatment.
