If you're experiencing swollen hands and feet, consult a medical professional to make sure you don't have a serious condition. When the swelling is caused by fluid in the hands and feet, it is called edema. The most common cause of this swelling is idiopathic edema — "idiopathic" means that the cause is unknown — and it is not dangerous. To make yourself more comfortable, you should exercise regularly, eat a low-sodium diet and drink at least 64 ounces (1.9 liters) of water a day. Other treatments to choose from include massage, the use of ice, elevating your feet and hands while sitting and wearing support gloves or socks.
When you have swollen feet, too much standing can worsen the swelling, especially around the ankles. Daily exercise is one of the best things you can do for these symptoms. Talk to your doctor about starting a regular exercise regimen.
One of the most important dietary measures to treat this swelling is to reduce your sodium intake. Cut back on table salt, and check the sodium content in such packaged foods as canned soup, snacks and convenience meals. Choose low-sodium alternatives. A good way to lower your salt intake is to replace salty snacks with fresh fruit and vegetables.
Proper hydration promotes healthy kidney function. The more water you drink, the more fluids and toxins you'll flush out of your body. If you drink at least 64 ounces (1.9 liters) of water a day, you should notice a lessening of water retention and significant reduction in the swelling of your hands and feet. Natural diuretics might help, too. Try drinking green tea, cranberry juice or apple cider on a regular basis.
Both swollen feet and swollen hands respond well to massage. You can massage your feet and hands yourself, or you can get someone to do it for you. Whichever you choose, the massage will aid your circulation. Improved circulation in your hands and feet will reduce water retention there.
The use of ice can help, too. If edema of the feet is causing you significant discomfort, then put ice on your feet for 10 minutes. Remove the ice for 10 minutes, then repeat one or two more times, if necessary. You can do likewise if edema of the hand is causing you pain. Ice helps to lessen water retention in swollen hands and feet.
Another treatment for swollen hands and feet is elevation. Edema of the foot can be lessened by placing your feet on a stool. Make sure to position your feet higher than your heart. Situate your hands on pillows in a comfortable position that is higher than your arms.
Swelling in your hands can be lessened by wearing support gloves. To lessen swelling in your feet, try support socks, also known as compression socks. The gloves and socks work as a type of passive massage, reducing swelling by promoting better circulation.