Reasons for Swollen Fingers

Experiencing swollen fingers means your fingers are appearing larger in size, and there may be itching or burning. There are many causes of swollen fingers, including a finger injury or infection. There may also be serious causes such as kidney disease, heart failure, lung disease, cirrhosis, thyroid disease or malignant lymphoedema. If the swelling does not go away or becomes unbearable, you should see a doctor. There are also more common causes of this condition.

Pregnancy

• According to the American Pregnancy Association, swelling in the hands, legs, face and feet are a normal part of pregnancy. The cause is due to a build-up of extra fluids in your body to prepare your pelvic joints and tissues for delivery.

Arthritis

• According to the Mayo Clinic, arthritis may be a cause of swollen fingers. Early arthritis affects your smaller joints first, such as your hands and fingers.

Scleroderma

• Scleroderma is a rheumatic and connective tissue disease that may cause swelling and hardening of the skin in your fingers and other areas of the body.

Water Retention

• Water retention or edema can be caused by eating too much salt, PMS, drug side effects, sunburns or nutritional deficiencies. This condition can cause swelling in your fingers and other areas of the body.

Eczema

• Eczema can be caused of an allergic reaction, an inherited condition or by your hands coming in contact with an irritant. According to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, swelling usually occurs on the top of the hand and around the fingers.