Summertime for fun, sun, outdoor activities, and relaxation. However, it's also a time when many people notice their hands swelling more frequently. Swelling in hands and fingers can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it might affect your ability to engage in your favorite activities comfortably. Let's explore why your hands may swell more during the summer, surprisingly some specific causes like exercise and waking up in the morning, and provide some tips to manage and reduce this swelling.
In This Article
What's Behind the Swelling in Hands?
The Role of Temperature
When the temperatures rise, your body’s natural response is to cool itself down. One way the body does this is through vasodilation, where blood vessels, especially tiny capillaries in your extremities like your hands and feet, expand to allow more blood to flow near the surface of the skin, helping to release heat.This increased blood flow can sometimes cause fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, leading to temporary swelling in your hands and fingers.
Physical Activity and Swelling
Walking and Exercise
When you engage in physical activities such as walking, running, or working out, your body increases blood flow to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This can also lead to vasodilation and fluid accumulation in your hands, causing them to swell temporarily. Additionally, gravitational forces during walking or running may cause fluids to pool in your hands and fingers.
Waking Up with Swollen Hands
It's not uncommon to wake up with swollen hands, especially after a night of deep sleep. While you sleep, your body's position remains relatively static, and this lack of movement can cause fluid to accumulate in your hands and fingers. As we sleep, our body gets to work, processing and resetting our metabolic systems, which can lead to puffiness.
Other Common Causes of Hand Swelling
Diet and Hydration
Salt Intake
Consuming high levels of sodium can cause your body to retain extra fluid, leading to swelling in your hands and fingers. Be mindful of foods high in salt, such as processed snacks, canned soups, and fast food, especially during the hot summer months when swelling can be exacerbated.
Hydration
Surprisingly, not drinking enough water can also lead to swelling. When you're dehydrated, your body tries to conserve water by retaining fluid, which can result in swollen hands and fingers.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to fluid retention and resultant swelling in hands and fingers. Women might notice periodic swelling related to their menstrual cycle, while pregnant individuals often experience more persistent and pronounced swelling due to increased blood volume and fluid shifts within the body.
Medical Conditions
While temporary and occasional hand swelling is often harmless and manageable, persistent or severe swelling could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or cardiovascular problems can manifest as hand swelling. If you have concerns about prolonged or painful swelling, it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Practical Tips to Manage and Reduce Swelling in Hands
Swelling in hands and fingers during the summer can be an annoying occurrence, but it is typically a temporary and manageable condition. Get ready to take control of swelling with these tips!
Stay Cool
Taking cool showers can help constrict blood vessels and reduce the chances of fluid accumulation. Consider a refreshing cool shower after spending time in the summer heat to provide immediate relief from swelling.
Watch Your Salt Intake
Reducing your sodium intake can have a significant impact on fluid retention. Steer clear of salty foods and feast on a vibrant mix of colorful veggies, fruits, and whole grains for a balanced diet...think mediterranian diet Reading food labels and cooking more meals at home where you can control the amount of salt added can be helpful practices.
Stay Hydrated
Maintaining proper hydration levels is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. And even though it makes sense, we all forget that drinking enough water helps regulate your body's fluid balance and can prevent dehydration-related swelling. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, but be prepared to increase that amount if you're spending a lot of time outdoors or engaging in physical activity.
Elevate Your Hands
When you notice swelling, try to elevate your hands above heart level. This can help reduce the pooling of fluids in your hands by using gravity to your advantage. Laying down and propping your hands up on a pillow or couch arm can be a convenient way to give your hands a quick break.
Perform Gentle Hand Exercises
Incorporating gentle hand exercises into your daily routine can promote better circulation and reduce the likelihood of swelling. Simple exercises such as making fists, stretching your fingers wide, or performing wrist circles can keep the blood flowing and reduce fluid retention.
Use Cool Compresses
If you experience sudden swelling, applying a cool compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your hands for 10-15 minutes can help reduce swelling quickly. The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels, reducing fluid leakage into surrounding tissues. - This is why your rings on your fingers fit looser in the winter.
Wear Compression Gloves
Compression gloves can be a useful tool to manage chronic swelling. These gloves apply gentle pressure to your hands and help prevent fluid buildup. Wearing them during and after activities, such as exercise or long periods of standing, can significantly reduce swelling in your hands and fingers.
Avoid Wearing Tight Accessories
Wearing tight rings, bracelets, or watches can restrict blood flow and contribute to swelling. Opt for looser jewelry and give your hands a break from any accessories if you notice swelling.
Use Targeted Relief Products
For those looking for targeted relief, consider using NextEvo’s Clinical Strength 5% CBD Cream. Applied directly to swollen areas, the CBD cream's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and reduce swelling in your hands, feet, and other joints, making it a convenient addition to your wellness routine.
When to Seek Medical Advice for swelling in your hands
While occasional swelling in hands and fingers is generally not a cause for concern, there are situations where it might be necessary to seek professional medical advice.
***Remember: If you experience persistent swelling, pain, or other symptoms such as redness and warmth, it could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment.- please contact your medical provider to rule out any other conditions!
Conditions such as arthritis, lymphedema, or cardiovascular issues should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Key Takeaways About Reducing Swelling In Hand
Summer's heat and humidity can make our hands and fingers feel like balloons. But understanding what's causing the swelling - whether it's the weather, exercise, food, or hormones - puts us back in control. With a few simple tweaks to our daily routine, we can feel relief and enjoy a summer of outdoor adventures with our friends and family.
As the mercury rises, mastering hand and finger swelling can make all the difference in your summer enjoyment. This crucial skill can vastly improve your daily life. Stay proactive, embrace these useful strategies, and don’t let temporary hand swelling hold you back from making the most of your summer adventures.
For more relief, consider integrating NextEvo’s Clinical Strength 5% CBD Cream into your routine. Targeted relief from swelling in your hands can be a game-changer. By reducing inflammation, you can regain active, comfortable hands that let you live life to the fullest. Prolonged inflammation can lead to chronic discomfort, making everyday activities a struggle. Say goodbye to painful hands and hello to freedom of movement.
Here’s to a wonderful summer ahead, free from the irritation of swollen hands and full of joyful activities and comfort!
