Winter is the season of hot chocolate, warm sweaters, cardigans, and a pleasant climate. But it is also a season of multiple skin and health problems. One of these problems topping the list is fingers swelling in winter. It happens due to solidifying liquid in the human body, also known as oedema. The issue can be resolved with the help of home remedies.

Causes of Finger Swelling in Winter

Cold Weather: Exposure to cold temperatures can cause blood vessels in the fingers to constrict, leading to reduced blood flow and swelling.
Reduced Hydration: Cold weather often leads to decreased water intake, dehydration, and finger swelling.
Arthritis Flare-ups: Cold temperatures can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, leading to inflammation and swelling in the fingers.
Raynaud's Phenomenon: This condition causes blood vessels in the fingers to narrow excessively in response to cold or stress, leading to swelling and discolouration.
Injuries: Cold weather increases the risk of injuries such as frostbite or trauma, which can cause swelling in the fingers.
Poor Circulation: Cold weather can worsen circulation issues, such as peripheral artery disease, leading to swelling in the fingers due to impaired blood flow.
Allergies: Winter allergens such as mould or dust mites can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, leading to swelling in the fingers.
Salt intake: Consuming excessive amounts of salty foods, common during the holiday season, can contribute to water retention and finger swelling.

Symptoms of Fingers Swelling in Winters

Symptoms of finger swelling in winter can include

Increased puffiness or enlargement of the fingers
Tightness or discomfort in the fingers
Difficulty bending or moving the fingers
Redness or discoloration of the skin on the fingers
Feeling of warmth or heat in the fingers
Tenderness or sensitivity to touch
Decreased range of motion in the fingers
Possible numbness or tingling sensation in severe cases.

Treatment for Fingers Swelling in Winter

Keep your hands warm: Wear gloves or mittens outdoors to prevent exposure to cold temperatures, which can exacerbate swelling.
Elevation: Elevate the hands above the level of the heart to encourage fluid drainage and reduce swelling.
Warm compress: Apply a warm compress or soak hands in warm water to help increase blood flow and reduce swelling.
Gentle exercise: Perform gentle exercises or hand stretches to improve circulation and reduce stiffness in the fingers.
Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that exacerbate swelling, such as exposure to cold, excessive sodium intake, or repetitive hand movements.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain hydration, which can help prevent fluid retention and swelling.
Over-the-counter medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with swelling.
Moisturise: Use a moisturising lotion or cream to prevent dryness and cracking of the skin, which can contribute to swelling.

Conclusion

Fingers swelling in winter is usually observed in people living in freezing temperatures. The fingers and toes swell for various reasons but can be healed with the help of various home remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions About About Fingers Swelling in Winter

Q1. Why do fingers and toes swell in winter?
A1. Restricted flow of blood in winter due to different reasons leads to swelling in fingers and toes.

Q2. What are some of the causes of swollen fingers in winter?
A2. Low activity, dehydration, dry skin, blisters, and Raynaud's phenomenon are some of the causes of fingers swelling in winter.

Q3. How can swollen fingers in winter be treated with simple home remedies?
A3. Warming hands gradually in a blanket, staying hydrated, and maintaining physical activity for at least 15 to 20 minutes are helpful home remedies to avoid swollen fingers in winter.

Q4. How can physical activity help to lower finger swelling in winter?
A4. Physical activity helps to improve restricted blood circulation in winter; hence, avoiding swelling of fingers and toes in winter is helpful.

Q5. How to treat dry skin and blisters in winter to lower finger swelling?
A5. Moisturising the skin with the help of moisturisers or nourishing body oils can help one avoid dry skin and blisters, one of the causes of swollen fingers in winter.

References:

https://oncquestlabs.com/blog/fingers-swelling-in-winter/
https://www.healthline.com/health/chilblains