Hand Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

Swelling of the palm?

Hello Doctor:
Day 1: At 6 PM, my right hand's entire palm and my left index finger began to swell.
There was no pain, just a feeling of itchiness (I rubbed my hand to alleviate the discomfort).
My palm felt very tight, and I initially thought it was due to contact with something dirty, so I washed my hands, but it didn't seem to help.
Initially, only my right palm and left index finger were swollen, but later both palms became swollen.
By 9:30 PM, the swelling sensation had decreased a bit, but I still felt some swelling.

Day 2: I woke up at 6:30 AM, and the swelling had subsided, but my hands felt a bit numb, and pressing on the finger joints was painful.

Day 3: After that, my hands were fine again.
Prior to this incident, my hands had also experienced swelling, but it was only in the left or right thumb or index finger, not like this time where the entire palm was swollen.
I work in a computer-related field, so I spend long hours using a keyboard and mouse.

I would like to ask the doctor what might have caused this? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? Thank you for taking the time to help me with my concerns.

Winnie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/26

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding your inquiry, it is difficult to understand the condition without a direct examination.
I recommend seeking assistance from a rheumatologist at Changhua Hospital for evaluation.
Take care.

Reply Date: 2016/11/26

More Info

Hand swelling can be a concerning symptom, especially when it occurs suddenly and affects the entire hand. In your case, the swelling of your right hand and left index finger, followed by a temporary resolution and recurrence, suggests a few potential causes. Understanding these causes can help you determine when to seek medical attention and which specialist to consult.

Possible Causes of Hand Swelling
1. Injury or Trauma: Even minor injuries that you may not remember can lead to swelling. This could include repetitive strain from typing or using a mouse for extended periods, which can cause inflammation in the tendons or joints.

2. Allergic Reaction: If you came into contact with an irritant or allergen, it could cause localized swelling. This is often accompanied by itching, which you described.

3. Infection: An infection in the hand can lead to swelling, redness, and warmth. If you notice any signs of infection, such as fever or pus, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause swelling in the joints. Given your history of swelling in specific fingers, this could be a possibility.

5. Fluid Retention: Sometimes, swelling can occur due to fluid retention, which can be influenced by diet, medications, or underlying health conditions.

6. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to swelling and numbness in the hands, especially if you spend long hours typing.

When to Seek Medical Help
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- The swelling persists or worsens.

- You experience severe pain, redness, or warmth in the affected area.

- There are signs of infection, such as fever or discharge.

- You notice changes in skin color or temperature in the affected area.

- You have difficulty moving your fingers or hand.

Which Specialist to Consult
Given your symptoms and the potential causes, you may want to start by consulting a primary care physician who can evaluate your condition and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Depending on the findings, you might be referred to:
- Rheumatologist: If there is suspicion of an inflammatory or autoimmune condition.

- Orthopedic Surgeon: If there is a concern about joint or tendon injuries.

- Neurologist: If nerve compression or neurological issues are suspected.

- Dermatologist: If there is a concern about skin-related issues or allergic reactions.

Conclusion
In summary, your hand swelling could be due to a variety of factors, including repetitive strain, allergic reactions, or underlying medical conditions. Monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical advice when necessary is crucial. If the swelling recurs or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and prevent further complications.

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