Some of the most common causes of swelling fingers include arthritis, fluid retention, and pregnancy. In addition, finger edema can be caused by cardiac problems, abnormal kidney function, and allergies. Before treatment can be implemented to reduce swelling, a thorough medical examination must take place. Swollen fingers that are related to fluid retention can sometimes be relieved by taking diuretics, or water pills, which increase urinary output and flush fluids out of the system.
Typically, arthritis causes pain, stiffness, and joint swelling, which takes on the appearance of swollen fingers. Anti-inflammatory medications are frequently prescribed in the treatment of arthritis to reduce pain, improve mobility, and decrease swelling in fingers. Kidney problems can also cause bloated, swollen hands and feet, as well as a puffy face. Treatment for kidney problems might include medication to bring down blood pressure, administration of potassium, and in severe cases, kidney dialysis treatments.
Sometimes, when people come in contact with an allergen, it can cause swelling in the fingers and they then itch and turn red. In cases like this, antihistamine medications can help decrease itching, redness, and subsequent swelling. Other symptoms of swollen fingers include shiny skin on the fingers, pain when bending the fingers, and pitting edema. This condition occurs when an area of the tissue that is pressed down upon forms an indentation, or takes on a pitting appearance.
Women who are pregnant frequently experience swelling fingers and feet. Treatment for swollen fingers and feet during pregnancy includes limiting salt in the diet and increasing fluid take. When people do not take in adequate amounts of fluid, the human body sees it as a potential threat. Subsequently, the body begins to hold on to every drop of fluid, which eventually can lead to swelling. Once the body realizes that adequate amounts of fluid are coming in, it will release some of the fluid that it was retaining, thus decreasing swelling.
Sometimes swelling fingers can become so large that rings no longer fit. In severe cases, rings can become so tight that they have to be cut off. To prevent this from occurring, rings should be removed at the first sign of swollen fingers. Not only can the fingers swell and cause rings to become tight, swollen knuckles can occur, making it even more difficult to remove a ring. At the first sign of edema, people need to call their physicians so treatment can begin.