Close Menu
pilgrimjournalist.com
    What's Hot

    My Mother Visited From The Village, But My Mother-In-Law Unexpectedly Said, “Go To The Kitchen For Dinner”

    August 20, 2025

    On My Son’s Wedding Day, the Maid Rushed to the Stage—Her Confession Changed Everything I Thought I Knew About My Family

    August 20, 2025

    5 warning signs of poor kidney health that may appear at night

    August 20, 2025
    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    • World
    • Science
    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    pilgrimjournalist.compilgrimjournalist.com
    • Home
    • Journal
      • Stories
      • Habits
    • Reflections

      My Wife Excluded Me from Her Birthday Party – I Was Shocked to Find Out Why

      June 14, 2025

      School Principal Noticed 9-Year-Old Girl Was Taking Leftovers from the School Cafeteria Every Day and Decided to Follow Her

      June 14, 2025

      My Boyfriend Demanded I Pay Him Rent to Live in His Apartment

      June 13, 2025

      Young Teen Sucker-punches Opponent During Basketball Game

      March 12, 2021

      It’s Time for Basketball: Spurs at Timberwolves

      January 16, 2021
    • Daily
    • People
      1. World
      2. Science
      3. Reflections
      4. View All

      Fidelity Launches Canada’s First Bitcoin Custody Service

      January 22, 2021

      At White House, Frustration Over Who Gets to Ask Questions

      January 22, 2021

      Today’s Famous Birthdays List For November 12, 2021

      January 16, 2021

      Police Department Saved Newest K-9 from Euthanization

      January 14, 2021

      Gaming Companies Should Avoid Predatory Designs

      January 14, 2021

      Huawei Looking to License Smartphone Designs to Get Around US Trade Ban

      January 14, 2021

      The Fastest Cars You Must Use In The Game

      January 14, 2021

      Cryptographers Are Not Happy With How Using the Word ‘Crypto’

      January 14, 2021

      My Wife Excluded Me from Her Birthday Party – I Was Shocked to Find Out Why

      June 14, 2025

      School Principal Noticed 9-Year-Old Girl Was Taking Leftovers from the School Cafeteria Every Day and Decided to Follow Her

      June 14, 2025

      My Boyfriend Demanded I Pay Him Rent to Live in His Apartment

      June 13, 2025

      Young Teen Sucker-punches Opponent During Basketball Game

      March 12, 2021

      Urgent health warning issued after pigs with ‘neon blue’ flesh are discovered in one specific part of the US

      August 19, 2025

      Found this on my son’s scalp. Have no idea what it is and we can’t get a doc appt soon. Tips?

      July 27, 2025

      Understanding Different Types of Leg Alignment: What Your Legs Say About Your Posture and Health

      July 26, 2025

      Signs on your FEET that indicate…

      July 25, 2025
    pilgrimjournalist.com
    Home»Health News»Swollen Hands and Feet? Here’s What It Could Mean—and When to Be Concerned

    Swollen Hands and Feet? Here’s What It Could Mean—and When to Be Concerned

    July 4, 20254 Mins Read
    Share
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest Telegram Copy Link

    Have you ever looked down at your hands or feet and noticed they appear puffier than usual? Maybe your rings feel tighter, or your shoes don’t fit like they used to. Swelling—especially in the hands and feet—is a common issue that many people experience at some point. But what causes it, and when should you seek medical attention?

    Let’s break it down.

    For illustrative purposes only

    What Is Swelling?

    Swelling, also known as edema, happens when excess fluid builds up in the tissues. It can affect any part of your body but is most common in the hands, feet, ankles, and legs due to gravity.

    Mild swelling may come and go, but persistent or severe swelling could point to an underlying health issue.

    Common Causes of Swollen Hands and Feet

    1. Fluid Retention (Edema)

    The most frequent cause of swelling is simple fluid buildup, often due to:

    • Sitting or standing too long (especially in hot weather)

    • Too much salt in your diet

    • Not drinking enough water

    • Hormonal changes, like during menstruation or pregnancy

    You might notice the swelling is worse at the end of the day and improves after elevating your legs or resting.

    2. Poor Circulation

    If your blood isn’t circulating properly, fluid can pool in your extremities. This is often due to:

    • Heart problems, such as congestive heart failure

    • Varicose veins or damaged valves in the legs

    • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a blood clot, usually in the leg

    In these cases, swelling is usually more noticeable in the legs and may come with heaviness or aching.

    For illustrative purposes only

    3. Kidney or Liver Issues

    Your kidneys and liver help balance fluid and remove waste from your body. If they’re not working well:

    • The kidneys may allow fluid and sodium to build up.

    • A damaged liver (e.g., from cirrhosis or hepatitis) can reduce protein levels in the blood, causing fluid to leak into tissues.

    This kind of swelling may be more persistent and generalized, not just in hands or feet.

    4. Lymphedema

    Your lymphatic system drains fluid from tissues. If it’s blocked or damaged—due to surgery, infection, or cancer treatment—lymph fluid can accumulate, leading to chronic swelling, especially in one arm or leg.

    Signs of lymphedema include:

    • A feeling of tightness or heaviness

    • Reduced range of motion

    • Thick or hardened skin over time

    5. Medication Side Effects

    Several medications can cause swelling as a side effect:

    • Calcium channel blockers (for high blood pressure)

    • Steroids

    • Hormone treatments (like estrogen or testosterone)

    • Diabetes drugs (such as pioglitazone)

    Always check with your doctor before adjusting your medication.

    6. Injuries and Inflammation

    Swelling is a natural response to injury or inflammation. Common causes include:

    • Sprains or fractures

    • Insect bites or infections

    • Arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout)

    In these cases, swelling is usually localized, may appear suddenly, and is often accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth.

    7. Pregnancy

    Mild swelling in the hands and feet is normal during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. But if it’s sudden or severe, or comes with high blood pressure or headaches, it may indicate preeclampsia, a serious condition requiring immediate medical care.

    For illustrative purposes only

    When Should You Be Concerned?

    While mild, temporary swelling may not be a problem, you should see a doctor if you experience:

    • Sudden, unexplained swelling

    • Swelling only on one side (especially in the leg)

    • Swelling with shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness

    • Redness, warmth, or pain in the swollen area

    • Persistent swelling that doesn’t improve after rest or elevation

    • Weight gain due to fluid retention

    • A history of heart, kidney, or liver disease

    These symptoms could indicate something more serious like heart failure, kidney dysfunction, or a blood clot.

    What Can You Do at Home?

    If your swelling is mild and not related to a serious health issue, you can try:

    • Elevating your legs or hands above heart level

    • Reducing salt intake to prevent fluid retention

    • Staying well hydrated

    • Wearing compression socks or sleeves

    • Moving regularly—avoid sitting or standing too long

    • Using cold packs for inflammation-related swelling

    Final Thoughts

    Swelling in the hands and feet can have many causes—from something as simple as a hot day or salty meal, to more serious medical conditions like heart, liver, or kidney problems. The key is to pay attention to your symptoms and notice any changes in your body.

    If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to speak with your doctor than to guess. Your body is wise—and swelling may be its way of asking for help.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

    Post Views: 3,049
    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Telegram Copy Link

    Related Posts

    5 warning signs of poor kidney health that may appear at night

    August 20, 2025

    People Are Asking Why We Can Eat Rare Steak But Not Rare Chicken

    August 20, 2025

    All You Need to Know About Eating Eggs Daily

    August 19, 2025
    Don't Miss

    My Mother Visited From The Village, But My Mother-In-Law Unexpectedly Said, “Go To The Kitchen For Dinner”

    Stories August 20, 2025

    My mother had come to visit from the village, but my mother-in-law suddenly said: “Go…

    On My Son’s Wedding Day, the Maid Rushed to the Stage—Her Confession Changed Everything I Thought I Knew About My Family

    August 20, 2025

    5 warning signs of poor kidney health that may appear at night

    August 20, 2025

    At Seventy, She Tested Her Children’s Love by Acting ‘Crazy’—Their Reaction Left Her Heart in Pieces

    August 20, 2025
    Our Picks

    My Mother Visited From The Village, But My Mother-In-Law Unexpectedly Said, “Go To The Kitchen For Dinner”

    August 20, 2025

    On My Son’s Wedding Day, the Maid Rushed to the Stage—Her Confession Changed Everything I Thought I Knew About My Family

    August 20, 2025

    5 warning signs of poor kidney health that may appear at night

    August 20, 2025

    At Seventy, She Tested Her Children’s Love by Acting ‘Crazy’—Their Reaction Left Her Heart in Pieces

    August 20, 2025
    About Us
    About Us

    Pilgrim Journalist is a place to share life stories, personal experiences, and meaningful reflections. Through simple moments and honest insights, we hope to inspire, connect, and accompany you on your own journey.

    Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest YouTube WhatsApp
    Our Picks

    My Mother Visited From The Village, But My Mother-In-Law Unexpectedly Said, “Go To The Kitchen For Dinner”

    August 20, 2025

    On My Son’s Wedding Day, the Maid Rushed to the Stage—Her Confession Changed Everything I Thought I Knew About My Family

    August 20, 2025

    5 warning signs of poor kidney health that may appear at night

    August 20, 2025
    © 2025 ThemeSphere. Designed by ThemeSphere.
    • Home
    • World
    • Science
    • Health

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.