Swollen Hands and Vein Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions

The veins on the backs of both hands are prominently raised and painful?

I woke up for some unknown reason to find that both of my hands were red, swollen, and puffy, to the point where my rings were stuck and I couldn't take them off.
This condition has persisted for several days.
I also noticed that if I kept my hands too low, the discomfort and pressure-like pain became more pronounced.
The veins on the backs of my hands appeared to be bulging excessively, accompanied by redness and swelling.
One time during dinner, not only my hands but also my neck and face felt very tight, and I began to feel a heavy pressure in my chest.
I have previously donated blood, but due to my small veins, the nurse said the blood flow was too slow and might clot, so I had to stop.
Based on my constitution and symptoms, what could be causing these issues? If I experience the same problem again, what should I do to alleviate the symptoms quickly?

Li Xiaodan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/02/04

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology

Hello, Xiao Dan.
The "prominent veins on the back of both hands" you mentioned are likely the superficial veins on the dorsum of the hands, which are part of the venous return from the limbs.
Typically, you can see them become more prominent when you let your hands hang down.
However, you mentioned "with pain," which raises some concerns.
If there is localized redness, swelling, and pain along the vein, it could indicate phlebitis.

Regarding your comment about waking up to find both hands red, swollen, and feeling tight, to the point where your rings are stuck and cannot be removed, and that this has persisted for several days, it is concerning.
You also noted that if you keep your hands too low, the discomfort and pressure-like pain become more pronounced, with the veins on the back of your hands appearing exaggeratedly prominent and swollen.

Additionally, you mentioned experiencing a feeling of tightness not only in your hands but also extending from your neck to your face, and a heavy sensation in your chest while having dinner.
If there is symmetrical swelling in both hands and facial swelling, systemic issues should be considered.
Generally, edema does not commonly cause redness or pain unless there is an accompanying inflammatory process.

If venous return obstruction is suspected, it usually presents as asymmetrical swelling unless the obstruction is near the central venous system.
There are other possibilities as well.
Given the complexity of your symptoms, I recommend that you consult your primary care physician for an evaluation and appropriate referral.
Wishing you safety and health.

Reply Date: 2011/02/04

More Info

Mimi, your symptoms of swollen hands and vein pain upon waking, along with the discomfort you experience when your hands are positioned too low, can be indicative of several underlying issues. The combination of redness, swelling, and the sensation of tightness in your hands and even extending to your neck and chest could suggest a vascular or systemic issue that warrants further investigation.

One possible cause of your symptoms could be related to fluid retention, which can occur due to various factors including dietary choices, hormonal changes, or even certain medical conditions. For instance, high sodium intake can lead to water retention, causing swelling in the extremities. Additionally, conditions such as arthritis or other inflammatory disorders could contribute to joint swelling and pain.

Another consideration is the possibility of vascular issues. The fact that you notice your veins appearing more prominent and feeling constricted could suggest venous insufficiency or other circulatory problems. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of difficulty with blood draws, as you mentioned. The sensation of tightness in your chest and neck could also be concerning, as it may indicate a more serious cardiovascular issue, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for several days and seem to be worsening, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination to determine the root cause of your symptoms. They may check for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune disorders that can cause systemic symptoms.

In the meantime, there are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms. Elevating your hands can help reduce swelling, as gravity will assist in fluid drainage. Applying cold compresses may also provide relief from swelling and discomfort. Additionally, staying hydrated and reducing your salt intake can help manage fluid retention.

If you experience any acute symptoms such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden changes in consciousness, it is essential to seek emergency medical care immediately. These could be signs of a serious condition that requires prompt intervention.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your symptoms, including fluid retention, vascular issues, or inflammatory conditions, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail. Your health and well-being are of utmost importance, and timely intervention can lead to better outcomes.

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