Swelling in the hands can have many different causes. If only one hand is swollen and you recently injured it, there's a possibility that one or more of the 27 hand muscles is broken. See a doctor if you think this is the case. Swelling indicates increased fluid retention between the cells of the hand. Sometimes this may be a temporary condition caused by PMS or too much salt in the diet. Other reasons hands may swell include pregnancy, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, hyperthyroidism and lymphedema, according to WrongDiagnosis.com.
Step 1
Consult your doctor and describe your symptoms in case the swollen hands are a sign that you have a disease. You may need a cortisone injection, surgery, prescription medication, or a cast or splint.
Step 2
Take anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to take away swelling, as recommended by FamilyDoctor.org.
Step 3
Put an ice pack on hands to reduce swelling for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, two to three times a day, as recommended by FamilyDoctor.org and the Elderly Health Service of the Hong Kong Department of Health.
Step 4
Massage your hands. Raise your left hand in the air to elevate it. Use your right hand to gently massage the left hand to increase blood flow. Work the entire hand and down the forearm for 15 to 20 minutes, then switch hands. Do this a few times a day, as recommended by Elderly Health Service.
Step 5
Mix 1 tsp. salt and 1 tbsp. sugar or honey with a quart of water and drink it before exercise to reduce hand swelling during workouts, as advised by the BellaOnline article "Swelling Hands When Walking." Drink plenty of water throughout the day as well.
Step 6
Do hand exercises two times a day to increase circulation to stop swelling, as recommended by Elderly Health Service and BellaOnline. Squeeze your hand to make a fist and open it slowly. You can also use a stress ball or water bottle to have something to squeeze.
Step 7
Reduce the amount of salt in your diet. A high amount of sodium may cause swelling, according to BellaOnline.
Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
- Anti-inflammatory medication
