Few days back, amidst the grandeur and pageantry of the coronation ceremony, it was the sight of visibly swollen fingers of King Charles that caught the attention of the crowds.
The appearance of his fingers, which resemble inflated sausages, has aroused much discussion about the underlying cause of this unusual medical condition.
Do you know that there are a variety of factors that can contribute to swelling in the fingers, some of which may be temporary and others more chronic. Here are seven potential reasons behind puffy fingers.
Water Retention
One of the most common causes of puffy fingers is water retention, which can be due to a variety of factors including high salt intake, hormonal changes, or medication side effects. When the body retains water, it can cause swelling in the fingers and other parts of the body.
Inflammation
Inflammation is another potential cause of puffy fingers, as it can cause fluid buildup in the tissues. This can be due to an injury, infection, or chronic conditions such as arthritis.
A study discovered that arthritis gloves can help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort by applying pressure to the finger joints.
Also read: Swollen Fingers In Winters? Check Out Its Causes And Treatment
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves in the wrist and can cause swelling and numbness in the fingers. This is typically caused by repetitive motions or overuse of the wrist, and can be worsened by poor posture or ergonomic issues.
According to Dr Mohd Bilal Ahmed, Occupational Therapist, Master In Occupational Therapy (Neurology), The earliest indications and symptoms may come at night or when you are awake. He went on to say that when people wake up, they may need to shake their hands.
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the fingers and toes, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. This can lead to swelling and discoloration of the fingers, particularly in response to cold temperatures.
Thyroid Issues
Thyroid issues can also be a potential cause of puffy fingers, particularly in cases of hypothyroidism. When the thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormones, it can lead to water retention and swelling throughout the body, including the fingers.
Also read: Polydactyl Wonder In Telangana: Baby Born With 24 Fingers Leaves Everyone In Surprise
Allergies
Allergies can cause inflammation throughout the body, including the fingers. This can be due to an allergic reaction to a specific substance or food, or may be related to seasonal allergies.
Dehydration
Dehydration can also be a potential cause of puffy fingers. When the body doesn't have enough water, it can cause tissues to swell and fingers to become puffy. This can be worsened by excess caffeine or alcohol consumption, as these substances can further dehydrate the body.
Puffy fingers can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are temporary and others more chronic. If you're experiencing swelling in your fingers, it's important to consider potential underlying causes and seek medical attention if necessary. By addressing the root cause of the problem, you can find relief from puffy fingers and improve your overall health and well-being.
