In summer, with the onset of heat, edema actively develops. More often they bother in the area of the legs – marks from socks and shoe straps give out such a problem. But the hands also swell – this can be understood by the difficult-to-remove rings and swollen fingers. Why does this happen and how to remove swelling from the hands, aif.ru told surgeon-phlebologist of the first professional network of orthopedic salons Armen Avakyan.
When the heat comes on, the human body tries to keep the temperature balance by dilating blood vessels and sweating. However, sometimes in hot weather, you may notice that the hands begin to swell. There are many reasons for this.
The first reason is vasodilation
In hot weather, blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow and cool the body. This can lead to some fluid retention in the tissues, including the hands, causing swelling.
The second reason is insufficient fluid level.
During the heat, a person often opens up with increased sweating so that he can cool down. If he does not drink enough liquids, the body may begin to retain water: most often these phenomena are observed in the lower extremities, but it happens that the liquid is retained in the hands to compensate for its lack. This may lead to swelling.
The third reason is the loss of salts and electrolytes.
When you sweat, you also lose electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Electrolyte imbalances can cause fluid retention in tissues and contribute to edema.
The fourth reason is overheating
If you stay in direct sunlight for a long time or stay in an insufficiently ventilated place, you can easily overheat. In response to this, the body can hold on to more fluid to prevent additional drying and tissue temperatures.
The fifth reason is pregnancy
It often happens that during pregnancy, women notice swelling in themselves, including in the area of \u200b\u200bthe arms. This condition is explained by hormonal changes as the duration of pregnancy increases. In the first trimester, a slight swelling of the fingers is characteristic, which is almost imperceptible. By the third trimester, swelling can be pronounced, making it difficult to wear jewelry. Puffiness gradually disappears in the first days after childbirth.
However, it is important to remember that in pregnant women, pathological edema associated with hypertension, overweight and the development of preeclampsia is also possible. Then protein appears in the urine, and pregnant women notice a significant weight gain per week, severe swelling of the arms and legs, face, and body.
The sixth reason is postoperative conditions and diseases
Lymphedema can occur after breast removal surgery, especially if axillary lymph nodes have been excised. This is due to possible violations of the lymphatic blood flow caused by defects in the development of the lymphatic capillaries, permanent scarring, thrombophlebitis or lymphadenitis. In addition, swelling of the hands may occur in patients with heart failure.
Preventive measures
To prevent swelling of the hands in the heat, you can take the following measures:
1. Drink enough fluids.
Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day, especially during hot weather. This will help maintain hydration and prevent fluid retention in the tissues.
2. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Overheating can contribute to hand swelling. Try to spend time in cool and ventilated areas or look for shade, especially during the peak of the heat. Be sure to use sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
3. Regular breaks and raising hands.
To avoid stagnation of blood in the arms and legs, try to take regular breaks, do exercises – raise your arms to normalize blood circulation. This will help prevent fluid retention in the hands.
4. Exercises for blood circulation.
Doing simple exercises like rotating your wrist, clenching and unclenching your fists, or raising your arms above your head can stimulate circulation and help prevent swelling.
5. Regular physical activity.
Exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, improves blood circulation and prevents swelling in the hands.
6. Balanced diet.
Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially potassium (which helps regulate fluid levels in the body), can help reduce the risk of swollen hands. Include fruits, vegetables and herbs in your diet.
7. Massage.
After a long period of activity or work, massage your hands to stimulate lymphatic drainage and improve blood circulation. There are special devices that help to massage yourself and allow you to normalize the movement of blood in the body.
Following these precautions will help you reduce the risk of swollen hands in hot weather. If swelling persists or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Source: aif.ru
