What are the symptoms of oedema?
The main symptom of oedema is noticeable swelling in the arms and hands. Other symptoms can include:
- Tightness in the skin
- A feeling of heaviness in the affected areas
- Difficulty moving the fingers or wrists
- Skin that may look shiny or stretched
What causes oedema?
There are several reasons why oedema may occur, including:
- Injury or trauma to the arm or hand
- Heart problems, which can affect blood flow
- Kidney issues, affecting fluid balance
- Certain medications that may cause fluid retention
- Aside from this, conditions like pregnancy or standing or sitting for long periods can also lead to swelling
How common is oedema?
Oedema can happen to many people at some point in their lives. It can affect people of all ages and is particularly common in older adults or those with certain health problems.
Who is more likely to get oedema?
Some factors can increase the chance of developing oedema, such as:
- Being overweight
- Having certain medical conditions, like diabetes or heart disease
- Being pregnant
- Taking specific medications, such as those for high blood pressure
How can I treat oedema?
In many cases, oedema can be managed by:
- Resting and elevating the swollen arms or hands
- Wearing compression garments to support circulation
- Limiting salt and processed foods in your diet
- Following your doctor’s advice if the swelling is due to medication or an underlying health issue
Powered by pharmacies
With over 1,700 pharmacy partners across the UK, you can get the help you need, wherever you are based.
Our website and mobile app make it easy and convenient to manage your health needs and book services at a pharmacy nearby.
How to prevent oedema?
To prevent oedema, consider the following tips:
- Stay active and avoid sitting or standing still for long periods
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Limit your intake of salty foods
How to live with oedema?
If you experience ongoing oedema, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and make lifestyle changes to manage the swelling. This may include exercise, dietary adjustments, and using specific support garments.
How quickly can I recover from oedema?
Recovery time from oedema varies depending on the cause. If it’s due to a temporary issue, like an injury, swelling may reduce in a few days. However, if caused by an underlying health issue, recovery may take longer.
What’s the outlook for oedema?
For many people, oedema is manageable and can improve with treatment and lifestyle changes. However, if it’s linked to a more serious condition, ongoing care and monitoring may be necessary.
Final thoughts
Oedema can cause swelling in the arms and hands for various reasons. If you have concerns about swelling or its causes, it’s important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider for further advice.
