Diagnosis

If a patient suffers from swollen fingers, the doctor will first perform a physical examination to find the cause of the swelling. The examination begins with an anamnesis, i.e. the patient interview, during which specific questions are usually used to make a suspected diagnosis. This is followed by appropriate examinations to confirm the suspected diagnosis or to identify another cause for the swelling.

Whether the swelling of the finger is an edema can be determined by a simple test, for example. A statement can be made by pressing the swollen area: If no indentation remains, but you can see how fluid can be displaced, it is usually an effusion. A classic protein-rich edema leaves a dented area for a short time, which then slowly evens out. If an inflammatory process within the joints is suspected, imaging procedures such as ultrasound can be used to detect joint wear or signs of inflammation. A blood test should always be performed to rule out underlying diseases such as hypothyroidism or gout.

Treatment

The treatment of swollen fingers depends on the diagnosis. In case of inflammatory or degenerative diseases of the joints, physiotherapeutic therapy is recommended, which is supplemented by the administration of appropriate medication. In the case of metabolic diseases, the basic problem must be treated.

In most cases, drug therapy is necessary, and if necessary, surgery may also be required, depending on the organ affected. If cardiovascular or kidney disease is the cause of the swelling of the fingers, drainage therapy with diuretics or blood thinning may be necessary. Swelling in the context of an allergic reaction to an insect bite can be treated with an anti-allergic agent such as antihistamines to stop the acute inflammatory processes.

In many cases, manual lymphatic drainage as part of a physiotherapeutic treatment can be helpful to support the drainage of fluid from the tissue. Wraps and bandages can also be used.In addition to simple exercises that activate the fingers and hand muscles, there are a variety of home remedies that can help with swollen fingers. Apple cider vinegar tinctures, turmeric and comfrey (devil’s claw) are substances that are said to have an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect.

They can be applied locally as a “tincture” or ointment. Tomato juice is said to be a proven household remedy against pregnancy edemas. The right diet, especially a balanced protein and salt balance, plays an important role. Consumption of (pork) meat or dairy and yoghurt products can also influence edema formation and should be minimized. In case of existing or long-lasting symptoms a clarification should always be made.