How to Treat Hand Edema

Hand edema is an abnormal amount of fluid in the hand which causes swelling and pain. Left untreated, hand edema can result in loss of function of the hand. Controlling hand edema is important to maintaining use of the hand. Hand edema is a symptom of an underlying health problem. The pain and swelling of hand edema can be treated. However, the underlying cause of the condition would need to be diagnosed for a permanent solution.

Things You'll Need

• Heating pad
• Cold compress or ice pack
• Health supplements
• Vitamins
• Cucumbers
• Onions
• Cabbage
• Oranges
• Apples
• Whole grain foods
• Potatoes

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Reduce your salt, alcohol, caffeine and sugar intake. Salt retention occurs when the kidneys think the body needs more fluid. Salt retention will further cause swelling in the hand. And since the edema symptoms can be worsened by high blood pressure, it is recommended you stay away from anything that may increase blood pressure, such as alcohol, caffeine and sugar. Reducing your intake of these foods will reduce the buildup of fluid.

• 2

  Lose weight if you are overweight. Apart from the benefits to the whole body and lifestyle, by losing weight you will reduce the buildup of fluid.

• 3

  Exercise regularly. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will decrease your likelihood of high blood pressure and being overweight and reduce the buildup of fluid.

• 4

  Massage the affected hand daily to stimulate circulation to reduce the buildup of fluid. Stimulating circulation may reduce swelling and decrease pain.

• 5

  Increase your daily intake of whole grain foods, potatoes, apples, grapes, oranges, cabbage and onions. These foods all discourage fluid retention within the body.

• 6

  Incorporate daily health supplements and vitamins. By improving your overall health you help your body fight infection and keep your immune system strong. Daily doses of vitamins A, B and C and Zinc have multiple health benefits including helping with the symptoms of hand edema, such as pain and swelling.

• 7

  Apply a heating pad for 20 minutes followed by a cold compress or ice pack. Repeat for relief from the swelling and discomfort.