What causes swelling under the arm. How to identify an armpit lump. When should you be concerned about an armpit lump. What are the potential treatments for armpit lumps. How can you prevent armpit lumps from occurring.

What Are Armpit Lumps and Their Common Causes?

Armpit lumps, also known as axillary lumps, are swellings or bumps that develop under the arm. These lumps can vary in size, texture, and cause. Understanding the nature of these lumps is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common causes of armpit lumps include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Infections
• Cysts
• Lipomas (harmless fatty growths)
• Certain medications or vaccinations
• In some cases, breast cancer (particularly in women)

Can armpit lumps be a sign of a serious condition? While many armpit lumps are benign and resolve on their own, some may indicate a more serious underlying condition. It’s essential to monitor any changes and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

The Role of Lymph Nodes in Armpit Swelling

Lymph nodes play a crucial role in our immune system. They act as filters, trapping harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. When these nodes are working overtime to fight off an infection or other threats, they can become swollen and noticeable.

In the armpit area, swollen lymph nodes may be caused by:

• Arm or breast infections
• Systemic infections like mononucleosis or HIV/AIDS
• Certain types of cancers, such as lymphomas or breast cancer

How many lymph nodes are in the armpit? The average person has about 20 to 40 lymph nodes in each armpit. These nodes can become enlarged individually or in groups, depending on the underlying cause.

Identifying Different Types of Armpit Lumps

Armpit lumps can present in various forms, each potentially indicating a different underlying cause. Understanding these differences can help in determining the appropriate course of action.

Cysts and Abscesses

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop under the skin, while abscesses are pus-filled infections. Both can cause large, painful lumps in the armpit. These are often related to:

• Shaving irritation
• Use of antiperspirants (not deodorants)
• Blocked hair follicles or sweat glands

Lipomas

Lipomas are benign fatty growths that can occur anywhere on the body, including the armpit. They are typically:

• Soft to the touch
• Movable under the skin
• Painless

Are lipomas in the armpit dangerous? Generally, lipomas are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or affect appearance.

When Should You Be Concerned About an Armpit Lump?

While many armpit lumps are benign, certain signs and symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek medical advice if you notice:

• A lump that persists for more than two weeks
• Rapid growth or change in size of the lump
• Redness, warmth, or skin changes around the lump
• Pain or tenderness in the area
• Fever or night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss

Is a hard lump in the armpit always cancer? Not necessarily. While a hard, immovable lump can be a sign of cancer, it can also indicate other conditions. Only a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnostic Procedures for Armpit Lumps

When you consult a healthcare provider about an armpit lump, they will likely perform a series of diagnostic procedures to determine the cause. These may include:

Physical Examination

The healthcare provider will carefully examine the lump, noting its size, texture, and mobility. They will also check for any other swollen lymph nodes in the body.

Medical History

You may be asked questions such as:

• When did you first notice the lump?
• Has the lump changed in size or appearance?
• Are you experiencing any pain or discomfort?
• Have you had any recent infections or illnesses?
• Are you taking any medications or have you recently been vaccinated?

Imaging Tests

Depending on the initial findings, your healthcare provider may recommend imaging tests such as:

• Ultrasound
• Mammogram (for women)
• CT scan
• MRI

Biopsy

In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump. This involves taking a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis.

How long does it take to get biopsy results for an armpit lump? The time can vary, but typically results are available within a few days to a week. Your healthcare provider will discuss the timeline with you.

Treatment Options for Armpit Lumps

The treatment for an armpit lump depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Observation

For benign lumps or those caused by minor infections, your healthcare provider may recommend a “watch and wait” approach. This involves monitoring the lump for any changes over time.

Medications

If the lump is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medications might be recommended to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Drainage

For abscesses or large, fluid-filled cysts, drainage might be necessary. This is typically a minor procedure performed in a clinical setting.

Surgery

In cases where the lump is suspicious for cancer or causing significant discomfort, surgical removal may be recommended.

Cancer Treatments

If the lump is determined to be cancerous, treatment may involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Can armpit lumps be treated at home? While some minor lumps may resolve on their own, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Preventing Armpit Lumps: Tips and Best Practices

While not all armpit lumps can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Practice good hygiene: Regularly clean your underarms to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use proper shaving techniques: If you shave your armpits, use a sharp razor and shaving cream to minimize irritation.
• Choose appropriate antiperspirants: If you’re prone to irritation, consider using a gentle, hypoallergenic product.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: This can help reduce friction and irritation in the armpit area.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A strong immune system can help prevent infections that may lead to swollen lymph nodes.

Do regular self-examinations help in early detection of armpit lumps? Yes, performing regular self-exams can help you become familiar with your body and notice any changes early on. If you detect any unusual lumps or changes, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Living with Armpit Lumps: Management and Coping Strategies

If you’re dealing with a persistent armpit lump, there are several strategies to manage discomfort and cope with the condition:

Pain Management

For painful lumps, consider these options:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Applying warm compresses to the affected area
• Gentle massage to promote drainage of swollen lymph nodes

Lifestyle Adjustments

Depending on the cause of your armpit lump, you may need to make some temporary lifestyle changes:

• Avoiding strenuous arm exercises if the lump is painful
• Wearing loose-fitting clothes to reduce friction
• Adjusting your personal hygiene routine to minimize irritation

Emotional Support

Dealing with an unexplained medical condition can be stressful. Don’t hesitate to seek emotional support from friends, family, or a professional counselor if needed.

How can you stay positive while waiting for test results? Focus on self-care, engage in activities you enjoy, and remind yourself that many armpit lumps turn out to be benign. If anxiety persists, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider.

Remember, while armpit lumps can be concerning, most are not serious. However, it’s always best to have any new or changing lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional for peace of mind and appropriate care.

Armpit lump Information | Mount Sinai

Lump in the armpit; Localized lymphadenopathy – armpit; Axillary lymphadenopathy; Axillary lymph enlargement; Lymph nodes enlargement – axillary; Axillary abscess

An armpit lump is a swelling or bump under the arm. A lump in the armpit can have many causes. These include swollen lymph nodes, infections, or cysts.

The female breast is either of two mammary glands (organs of milk secretion) on the chest.

The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).

Lymph nodes can become swollen as an immune response to local infection.

Causes

Lumps in the armpit may have many causes.

Lymph nodes act as filters that can catch germs or cancerous tumor cells. When they do, lymph nodes increase in size and are easily felt. Reasons lymph nodes in the armpit area may be enlarged are:

• Arm or breast infection
• Some body-wide infections, such as mono, AIDS, or herpes
• Cancers, such as lymphomas or breast cancer

Cysts or abscesses under the skin may also produce large, painful lumps in the armpit. These may be caused by shaving or use of antiperspirants (not deodorants). This is most often seen in teens just beginning to shave.

Other causes of armpit lumps may include:

• Cat scratch disease
• Lipomas (harmless fatty growths)
• Use of certain medicines or vaccinations

Home Care

Home care depends on the reason for the lump. Check with your health care provider to determine the cause.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

An armpit lump in a woman may be a sign of breast cancer, and it should be checked by a provider right away.

Contact your provider if you have an unexplained armpit lump. Do not try to diagnose lumps by yourself.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will examine you and gently press on the nodes. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms, such as:

• When did you first notice the lump? Has the lump changed?
• Are you breastfeeding?
• Is there anything that makes the lump worse?
• Is the lump painful?
• Do you have any other symptoms?

You may need more tests, depending on the results of your physical exam.

Miyake KK, Ikeda DM. Mammographic and ultrasound analysis of breast masses. In: Ikeda DM, Miyake KK, eds. Breast Imaging: The Requisites. 3rd ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2017:chap 4.

Tower RL, Camitta BM. Lymphadenopathy. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier;2020:chap 517.

Winter JN. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 159.

Last reviewed on: 7/19/2021

Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit: Pictures, Treatments, & More

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit may indicate an infection, injury, or disease that requires medical attention. However, it’s usually not a sign of cancer.

Read on to learn what it means to have swollen lymph nodes in your armpit.

Lymph nodes are critical parts of the immune system. They filter foreign substances from the body and store white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes fight disease and infections.

You have hundreds of small bean-shaped lymph nodes throughout the body, including in your:

• neck
• armpit
• chest
• abdomen
• groin

A lymph node in the armpit that’s only slightly enlarged may be difficult to see, but you may be able to feel it with your fingers. A serious infection or other condition may cause one or more nodes to swell enough that you can see a lump under your skin.

Keep in mind that the armpit contains many nodes, so swelling could occur in the front, center, or back of the armpit, as well as along part of the upper arm near the armpit.

In addition to being swollen, an affected lymph node may also be sore or tender to the touch.

Share on PinterestCT scan showing swollen lymph nodes in armpit.
Ahn, R. W., Mootz, A. R., Brewington, C. C., & Abbara, S.

Share on PinterestSwollen lymph nodes in the armpit due to infection.
Casa nayafana/Shuuterstock

Share on PinterestEnlarged lymph nodes in the armpit due to tuberculosis.
Zay Nyi Nyi/Shutterstock

To check for a swollen lymph node in the armpit, lift your arm slightly and gently place your fingers into your armpit. Press your fingers against the center of the armpit and then around the front and back of the armpit along the chest wall. Do the same on the other side.

Lymph nodes exist in pairs on each side of the body, and typically only one node in a pair will be swollen. By comparing both sides, it may be a little easier to tell if one is enlarged.

If lymph nodes are swollen in more than one part of the body, the condition is known as generalized lymphadenopathy, which suggests a systemic illness. Localized lymphadenopathy refers to swollen lymph node(s) in one location.

The location of swollen lymph nodes usually suggests the cause of the problem. A swollen lymph node in the neck, for example, is often a sign of an upper respiratory infection.

When lymph nodes in the armpit become swollen, your body may be fighting a viral infection, or any of several other conditions. The potential causes of a swollen lymph node in the armpit can include:

Viral infection

Common viruses can trigger swelling in one or more lymph nodes in the armpit. They can include:

• flu
• common cold
• mononucleosis

More serious viral infections that may cause lymph node enlargement include herpes, rubella, and HIV.

These viruses may also cause lymph nodes in the neck to become enlarged, too. In many cases, rest, fluids, and time are all that you can do while your immune system fights off the virus. For certain viral infections, like HIV, antiviral medications may be necessary.

Bacterial infection

Some common bacterial infections on the arm or surrounding chest wall, including staphylococcus and streptococcus, can lead to an enlarged lymph node in the armpit and elsewhere in the body. Antibiotics and rest are usually enough to overcome a bacterial infection.

Immune system disorder

Flare-ups of autoimmune disorders, like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause temporary enlargement of the lymph nodes in an armpit. Treatments vary, depending on the cause, but anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and in serious cases, immunosuppressant drugs may be necessary.

Cancer

Certain types of cancer directly involve the lymphatic system. Lymphoma actually originates in the lymph glands. Leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells, can cause inflammation and swelling of the lymph nodes.

Cancers that form in other organs or tissue may spread to the lymphatic system. Breast cancer, for example, can cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpit.

An enlarged lymph node near a cancerous tumor is often suspected of also being cancerous. Cancer treatments vary and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and other approaches.

Medications

In rare cases, certain medications can cause lymph nodes to swell. Among them are:

• ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and vasodilators to treat high blood pressure
• anticonvulsant drugs, including phenytoin and primidone
• anti-malarial drugs, including quinidine
• uric acid reducers, like allopurinol

Switching medications or adjusting doses may be enough to reduce side effects like lymph node enlargement.

As your body starts to successfully fight off the infection, the swelling in your lymph nodes should start to diminish.

With a typical bacterial infection, for example, a course of antibiotics should start to relieve lymph node swelling and other symptoms within a few days. A stubborn viral infection could take longer.

If your other symptoms are subsiding, but your lymph nodes remain swollen, tell a health professional. You may need additional treatment or a follow-up exam to see if there are other reasons your lymph nodes are still enlarged.

Because swollen lymph nodes are more often signs of an infection, rather than cancer, you may be inclined to dismiss swelling as a temporary symptom that’ll subside as you get over your infection. In many cases, that’s exactly what will happen.

If you’re unsure whether to seek a medical evaluation for swollen lymph nodes, these signs may be reasons to see a medical professional:

• One or more lymph nodes are swollen for no obvious reason.
• The swelling has lasted or gotten worse over a period of 2 or more weeks.
• The affected node feels hard and immovable when you press on it.
• The swollen lymph nodes aren’t painful.
• You have swollen lymph nodes in separate areas, like the armpit and groin.
• You have other symptoms, like:
  • redness or fluid oozing around the node
  • fever
  • cough
  • night sweats
  • unexplained weight loss
  • pain elsewhere in your body

Swollen lymph nodes typically get better once your illness has been treated or goes away on its own. To support your immune system as it responds to the infection or illness, you can rest and drink plenty of fluids. If you are prescribed medication, be sure to take it according to the prescribing doctor’s instructions.

If you feel discomfort or pain due to your swollen lymph node, you can try applying a warm compress to ease discomfort. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), may also help reduce pain.

If your pain gets worse or does not resolve, you may need to consult a doctor for additional treatment or testing.

Most of the time, a swollen lymph node means your body’s immune system is doing its job in responding to an infection or other health problem. That also means you’re dealing with an illness or injury that may require treatment.

If you’re battling a cold, for instance, and you notice slight swelling of a lymph node in your armpit, pay attention to it for a few days and see if the swelling goes down when you start feeling better.

Unexplained swelling or the presence of other serious symptoms should prompt a visit with a health professional for a more complete evaluation.

SM-Clinic cardiologist spoke about the causes of hand swelling in adults

Edema of the hands occurs quite often, and can be a manifestation of physiological changes or one of the symptoms of pathology. When should edema alert and where to address the problem?

ALENA PARETSKAYA

Pathophysiologist, immunologist, member

St. Petersburg Society of Pathophysiologists


ANDREY GRACHEV

Leading cardiologist of the holding

SM-Clinic, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Academician of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences

Swelling of the hand is a cause for concern if it occurs frequently or almost daily, is accompanied by additional symptoms, is aggravated or is not eliminated by simple methods.

What you need to know about arm swelling

• Why your arm swells
• How to remove swelling
• Questions and answers

Why the hand swells in adults

Swelling of the arm or both at once may be physiological or be a sign of pathology. It may be localized or spread to surrounding tissues. With swelling, the limb increases in volume, discomfort, soreness, and inconvenience when performing precise finger movements may be felt. It is difficult to remove the rings from the fingers or the watch from the wrist.

Swelling in the right or left arm occurs when the blood or lymphatic vessels are compressed by items of clothing during sleep. Swelling of the fingers and hands, which is especially noticeable if you remove rings or watches, occurs after alcohol or excess salty foods, fluids at night.

Right hand

A small local edema, if the mobility of the limb is preserved, is possible with bruises. In the area of ​​​​edema, there may be soreness, redness, bruises or abrasions may appear. If it is a hematoma, the edema will be more pronounced, a seal is determined under the skin, in the center of which fluctuation (fluid movement) is felt. Swelling is typical for sprains in the area of ​​the carpal, elbow or shoulder joint, with torn ligaments or their rupture. Severe pain is characteristic, which increases with movement, if the ligaments are torn, it is almost impossible to move the arm.

Edema is possible with fractures of bones, dislocations of joints. Then there is pain, limb deformity, complete impossibility of movement.

Edema may occur with frostbite of the fingers, burns, infectious processes in the area of ​​the hand, forearm or shoulder.

Left hand

Swelling of the finger of the left hand (as well as the right one) is possible with panaritium – suppuration in the phalanx. If it is a deeper lesion, the edema passes to the hand. Carbuncles or boils on any part of the arm can also lead to swelling. In this case, cyanosis or a purple area with suppuration is visible in the center of the inflamed focus. Edema is possible with suppuration of wounds, erysipelas, purulent arthritis and osteomyelitis.

Joint damage in other forms of arthritis also leads to tissue swelling. With rheumatoid arthritis, the joints of both hands are symmetrically affected, with gout, the fingers swell, with psoriasis, the joints of the fingers and hand.

Edema is typical for joint damage – thrombosis. In addition to edema, a feeling of fullness, pain, thickening of tissues, discoloration of the skin, crawling, and a change in sensitivity are typical.

Morning

Lymphatic edema is possible after operations to remove the mammary gland, if the axillary lymph nodes were excised. Puffiness may increase or appear in the morning with malformations of the lymphatic capillaries, with post-burn scars, thrombophlebitis, lymphadenitis. Without treatment, swelling can become permanent.

Hand edema also occurs against the background of heart failure. In the morning they are minimal, intensify in the evening. In contrast, renal swelling of the hands is most pronounced in the morning and decreases or disappears during the day.

Pregnancy

Puffiness in the fingers or hands is due to hormonal changes, especially as the pregnancy progresses. In the first trimester, a slight swelling of the fingers is typical, which is almost not noticeable. By the third trimester, swelling can be pronounced, making it difficult to wear rings, watches, bracelets. Puffiness gradually disappears in the first days after childbirth.

However, in pregnant women, pathological edema associated with hypertension, overweight and the development of preeclampsia is also possible. Then the appearance of protein in the urine, a pronounced weight gain per week, severe swelling of the arms and legs, face, and body are typical.

How to relieve hand swelling in adults

At home or for first aid, you need to give your hand an elevated position.

If this is an injury, the hand should be immobilized with a bandage or splint, a cold compress should be applied to the affected area, and an anesthetic should be taken.

If these are diseases of the joints, it is necessary to use painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs locally and orally. If the swelling develops quickly, with severe pain and dysfunction of the hand, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Doctors have two options for treating edema – conservative and surgical. It depends on the cause, the severity of the condition, and possible complications. In case of injuries, emergency care, bandages, anti-inflammatory drugs, anesthesia are indicated.

In vascular edema, antispasmodic, angioprotective and phlebotonic drugs are used.

Physiotherapy, gymnastics, massage or manual therapy are also prescribed.

If the injury is serious or severe lesions of blood vessels, bones, joints are detected, the edema is not eliminated, surgical interventions are used.

Popular questions and answers

Edema can be a short-term phenomenon and does not threaten anything. But sometimes they are symptoms of dangerous conditions. Andrey Grachev, a cardiologist, helped us figure out the problem.

Why is hand swelling dangerous?

Swelling is often a sign of a serious infection, cancer, heart or kidney problems. And if the swelling is persistent, then the disease has worsened or is rapidly progressing. Edema can be complicated by tissue malnutrition, skin inflammation, stretch marks, and discoloration.

When should I see a doctor for swollen hands?

In any situation when you notice swelling of the hands – in the morning, in the evening or during the day, you need a doctor’s consultation and at least a minimal set of tests and examinations. Edema itself is a symptom of problems in the body, and you need to find out what caused it.

Is it possible to remove swelling of the hands with folk remedies?

There are a number of diuretic decoctions and infusions, but it is extremely dangerous to use them on your own, not knowing what the causes of edema are. This can lead to a worsening of the situation, an electrolyte imbalance, a sharp decrease in pressure, dehydration and malaise.

In addition, various traditional medicines can cause allergies, worsen the condition, negatively affect the effects of the drugs taken and have a number of contraindications for taking. Folk remedies are not equal to the concept of “safe”.

What if only one arm is swollen?

If one arm is swollen, see a surgeon or physician, depending on the suspected cause. At the time of the examination, it is worth disturbing the sore arm less, giving it an elevated position so that the liquid flows more easily, do not sleep on this side, do not press the arm to the body. Also, do not massage the swollen hand, carry out any activities without the permission of the doctor.

Published on the portal kp.ru

Edema on the hands – causes, diseases, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Description

Edema on the hands – a symptom of a serious pathological process that has arisen in the body . There are many reasons for the appearance of edema on the hands. A symptom can be temporary or regular, always has a clear cause and indicates a particular violation in the functioning of organs or body systems. In no case should this condition be ignored, since this can lead to serious consequences, which will be very difficult to get rid of.

Most often, the symptom is temporary (periodic) in nature and manifests itself in the first half of the day – in the morning, swelling on the hands is easiest to notice . This is due to the fact that the liquid consumed per day is poorly absorbed and excreted by the body, as a result of which it accumulates in the soft tissues of the upper extremities.

The problem is predominantly associated with impaired blood flow, but there are a number of physiological and pathological causes that can cause this symptomatology. We will talk about them in more detail below, and also tell you what diagnostic and treatment methods are used to eliminate the root cause and the symptom itself.

Why swelling in the hands is dangerous

Swelling in the hands can be a sign of a dangerous infection, cancer, serious pathology of the heart or kidneys. And if the edema is persistent, regular, then the disease proceeds in an acute form and requires immediate medical intervention. Edema can be complicated by a change in the color of the skin in the place of accumulation of fluid, malnutrition of tissues, the appearance of stretch marks, inflammation of the skin.

Diagnosis requires a minimum set of tests and examinations to determine the cause and make a diagnosis. The symptom itself does not appear out of nowhere – it always indicates the presence of a specific problem in the body, and the main task of doctors is to find out what caused it.

As we mentioned earlier, edema on the hands can be the result of physiological or pathological processes . Also, swelling on the hands is observed after some types of injuries .

Physiological causes of edema in the arms

Often, patients seeking medical help have a unilateral edema of the arm, which occurs when lymphatic or blood vessels are squeezed by clothing or the body during sleep. Minor symmetrical swelling on the fingers or hands, especially noticeable when wearing rings, is observed after drinking alcohol, salty foods or large amounts of liquid before bedtime.

In some women, periodic swelling of the hands can be caused by hormonal changes in the body. Especially often puffiness is manifested during menstruation and during pregnancy.

Injuries

Severe bruises with preservation of limb function lead to local edema at the site of injury. With a hematoma (subcutaneous hemorrhage), the symptom is more pronounced. Puffiness with ruptures and sprains of ligaments is much more noticeable than with ordinary bruises.

Fractures appear as rapidly growing local edema. With closed fractures or fractures of the bone, swelling may be slight or not noticeable at all. With open fractures and dislocations, rapidly progressive swelling is noticeable at the site of injury.

In case of frostbite, the edema first spreads to the fingers, then flows to the hands. It can reach an incredible volume, because of which the hands resemble pillows. At the same time, sensitivity decreases sharply, against the background of progressive swelling, burning pain occurs.

In severe burns, edema is also associated with sharp burning pain, discoloration of the skin and blistering in the affected area.

Pathological causes of edema in the arms

Edema in the arms is often the result of local infectious processes:

1. Panaritium – an acute inflammatory process that occurs in the tissues, joints and bones of the fingers;
2. Furuncles and Kurbuncles – occurs in those parts of the hands where the hair follicles are located;
3. Soft tissue abscess – the formation of cavities with purulent contents in the subcutaneous adipose tissue and muscles. It is characterized by severe edema in the affected area;
4. Phlegmon – an inflammatory process with purulent contents that occurs in fatty tissue. It is characterized by swelling and rapid spread to surrounding tissues;
5. Erysipelas is an infectious disease caused by group A streptococcus. The infection mainly affects the skin and mucous membranes;
6. Purulent lesions of bones and joints (osteomyelitis, purulent arthritis) usually accompanied by severe edema in the affected area;

Local swelling observed at diseases of the joints (all forms of arthritis) :

1. Rheumatoid arthritis – erosive-destructive lesion of predominantly peripheral small joints;
2. Gouty arthritis – inflammation of the joint due to excessive accumulation of sodium monourate crystals in periarticular tissues;
3. Psoriatic arthritis – inflammation of the joints against the background of the skin form of psoriasis;
4. Infectious arthritis – inflammation of the joint provoked by viral and bacterial infections;
5. Occupational arthritis – inflammation of the most stressed joints. Localization of inflammation depends on the profession. Most patients with occupational arthritis often complain about swelling of the fingers;

Edema of the arm, which occurs against the background of vascular lesions :

1. Deep vein thrombosis – the formation of blood clots in the veins, in which the arm swells below the localization of the thrombus.
2. Lymphedema – accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the soft tissues of the arm. The disease is chronic.

Other pathological processes that affect the appearance and development of edema of the hand:

1. Erythromelalgia is a rare syndrome in which irregular dilation of the small arteries of the skin occurs, causing swelling.
2. Heart failure – violation of the pumping function of the heart. The disease can occur in both acute and chronic forms.
3. Kidney pathologies . Any dysfunction of the kidneys can lead to stagnation of fluid in the body, including in the upper limbs.
4. Lack of sleep, stress, obesity, chronic fatigue, allergic reactions to food, animal hair, cleaning agent are common causes that are rarely addressed.

Accompanying symptoms

The most obvious symptom of swelling of the hands is swelling of the fingers . Such an edema is visible even to the naked eye, it is enough to compare it with the hand of a person of a similar build.

Associated symptoms depend on the nature of the distribution of edema and the cause of its occurrence :

• In case of injuries – minor and severe pain, bruising, partial or complete loss of limb function, deformity in the area of ​​damage to the joint or bone, blistering, necrosis tissues, redness of the skin.
• Local infectious processes – twitching pain, cyanosis, formation of a purulent focus, reddening of the skin, fever, limitation of movement of the limb.
• Diseases of the joints – redness of the skin, stiffness of movements, sharp pains in the affected joints.
• Vascular lesions – feeling of fullness and heaviness, aggravated by pressing on the affected area, thickening of tissues, bluish tint of the skin, numbness of the limb, decreased sensitivity.
• Erythromelalgia – sharp pain, swelling of the limb, increased local temperature of the fingers. Symptoms may be bothersome for several minutes or hours.
• Heart failure – weight gain, swelling of the legs and face, abdominal dropsy, dropsy of the heart.
• Kidney disease – shortness of breath, decreased urine output, insomnia, appetite problems, nausea, high blood pressure.

What are the scenarios

Swelling is often a sign of a serious infection, cancer, heart or kidney problems. And if the edema is persistent, then the disease has worsened or is rapidly progressing. Edema can be complicated by tissue malnutrition, skin inflammation, stretch marks, and discoloration.

When to see a doctor:

• In case you noticed that the edema that appeared in the morning does not disappear by the evening, they are not watery and mobile, but quite dense;
• They did not appear situationally for a reason that is clear to you;
• For example, the day before you ate salty food, then, as a result, thirst – you drank a lot of water – edema on your face in the morning;
• Asymmetric edema is especially dangerous – swelling of one arm, for example. This may be a manifestation of a serious pathology and indicate the presence of a blood clot;
• Pay attention also to the localization of their appearance. Edema can be not only visible – on the respiratory organs, for example, as a result of allergic reactions or complications of diseases;

If you found swelling in the morning after sleep, and by the evening they disappeared, most likely, they indicate small errors in nutrition. Accordingly, by adjusting the intake of food and water, undesirable consequences can be avoided.

What diseases cause edema on the hands

1. Cardiac pathologies – heart failure, congenital and acquired heart defects, ischemic disease and the like. Edema of the hands is usually symmetrical, worse in the evening, the skin has a bluish color;
2. Diseases of the urinary system – urolithiasis, pyelonephritis and others. Puffiness is characteristic of the upper half of the body, is also symmetrical, pronounced in the morning. The skin becomes pale;
3. Endocrine disorders , hypothyroidism should also be included here. With a decrease in thyroid function, the face and upper body swell, the more the disease progresses, the lower the puffiness shifts, which persists constantly, without visible changes in the skin;
4. Vascular diseases – varicose veins, elephantiasis. Here, symmetry may be absent, but edema intensifies in the evening and after prolonged physical exertion;
5. Liver pathologies – hepatitis, cirrhosis. Edema can be throughout the body or localized, in one part of it, however, it persists constantly, regardless of the time of day;

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Borisov Evgeny Nikolaevich

Experience 9 years

Therapist

Rheumatologist

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What examinations to undergo

To get rid of the symptoms, the specialist needs to find out the cause of their appearance. In the presence of special indications, patients can be referred for treatment to narrow specialists.

An accurate diagnosis is made on the basis of the results of laboratory and instrumental procedures:

1. Physical (initial) examination . The doctor establishes the circumstances and time of the onset of symptoms. An experienced specialist during a physical examination will be able to determine the nature of the edema, the range of motion in the joints, the density and temperature of the tissues;
2. Radiography . This procedure is necessary for injuries of varying severity, inflammatory processes of tissues, diseases of the joints;
3. Upper extremity ultrasound . The procedure is performed if thrombosis is suspected, to determine the state of the lymphatic and venous vessels, to assess the progression of purulent processes;
4. MRI and CT . In doubtful cases, these procedures are necessary to study the soft tissues and hard structures of the upper extremities;
5. Laboratory tests . Analyzes help to detect signs of inflammation, which is of an infectious nature, disorders in the functioning of the kidneys, rheumatic pathologies;

What can be removed

The main method of getting rid of edema on the hands is the use of various medications.

Medical treatment is usually combined with various physiotherapy methods.

A significant advantage of using these techniques is the absence of mechanical impact on the affected tissue.

Surgical treatment, for example, with various injuries or the presence of inflammatory foci, involves some invasive techniques that help to remove pathological processes and anatomical disorders.

Medical treatment

Drugs are often used to eliminate the cause of edema, depending on the ongoing pathological process:

• antibacterial agents;
• antiparasitic preparations;
• anti-inflammatory agents;
• anticoagulants;
• fibrinolytics;
• diuretics;
• antihypertensives;
• hormones;
• cardiac glycosides;
• antihistamines;

Physiotherapy treatments

Complementary treatments are usually used in conjunction with medical or surgical treatment. Physiotherapy for swelling of the hands is usually aimed at expanding blood vessels and improving the outflow of lymphatic fluid:

• electrophoresis;
• magnetotherapy;
• ultra high frequency therapy;
• medium wave ultraviolet irradiation;
• low intensity centimeter wave therapy;

Surgical treatment

Surgical operations are used in severe cases (fractures, injuries, tumors, cysts) or advanced cases (progressive forms of inflammatory processes), when medical treatment no longer helps. Surgical treatment is often necessary in the following clinical situations:

• heart disease;
• decrease in the amount of protein in the blood;
• Paget-Schroetter syndrome;
• Pancoast cancer;
• superior vena cava syndrome;

Preventive measures

To prevent swelling or relieve existing symptoms, experts recommend:

1. Stop wearing constricting objects (watches, bracelets, baubles, wristbands) on your hands. This will help to significantly improve blood flow and reduce the spread of swelling;
2. Refrain from eating very spicy and salty foods, alcoholic beverages . Because of these products, fluid in the body is able to linger for a long time;
3. Reducing the amount of liquid consumed during the day . This item includes not only clean drinking water, but also soups, teas, coffee, juices. Try also to limit or completely refuse fluid intake 2-3 hours before bedtime;
4. If edema occurs regularly, you should include the following products in your diet – kefir, cottage cheese, watermelon, cucumbers, mountain ash, celery;
5. Simple exercise on a daily basis will improve water metabolism in the body . To get rid of swelling of the limbs, it is best to choose walking, running, swimming, hiking;
6. A contrast shower in the morning and in the evening is good for swelling of the fingers on the hands ;

Which doctor to contact

If you have encountered such a problem as swelling on your hands for the first time and have no idea what caused the condition, then it is recommended to visit a general practitioner or family doctor .

After a thorough history and initial examination, the therapist may refer to the following subspecialists:

• Hematologist;
• Orthopedist;
• Phlebologist;
• Vascular surgeon;
• Oncologist;
• Nephrologist;
• Cardiologist;

On our website, everyone can also use the services of an online consultation to clarify the cause of swelling in the hands.

Through an online consultation, the doctor will help to recommend and clarify:

• Is there an urgent need to go to the hospital;
• Is there a threat to the patient’s life;
• Possible risks and timing of complications;
• How can you help yourself at home;
• Whether examination is necessary and from which specialists;
• What kind of diet is desirable to follow;
• What diagnostic procedures are recommended;
• How not to worry and help yourself as efficiently as possible;

Treatment of the disease, which is expressed through swelling in the hands, is usually prescribed in accordance with the diagnosis made by the attending physician.