Finger swelling can feel alarming if you don’t know the cause. It can be a symptom of a minor ailment, or a sign of a more serious condition.

In this article, we discuss the symptoms and causes of finger swelling, and when you should contact a doctor.

Symptoms of Finger Swelling

Swelling can affect one or more fingers. The swelling can be mild or severe, and may come on gradually or develop suddenly. You may experience other symptoms alongside the finger swelling, such as:.

Pain or tenderness
Redness or warmth
Stiffness or limited mobility
Numbness or tingling

If the finger swelling is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or difficulty moving the finger, seek medical attention immediately.

Causes of Finger Swelling

1. Injury

Injury is one of the most common causes of finger swelling. This can include:.

Sprains or strains
Bumps or bruises
Cuts or punctures
Fractures or dislocations

Treatment for finger swelling caused by injury will depend on the type and severity of the injury.

2. Infections

Finger swelling can be a symptom of an infection. Common infections that can cause finger swelling include:.

Fungal infections
Bacterial infections
Viral infections

Infections may also cause other symptoms, such as fever and chills, and may require medical treatment to clear up.

3. Inflammatory conditions

Inflammatory conditions can cause finger swelling, such as:.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Gout
Psoriatic arthritis

These conditions can cause ongoing swelling and stiffness in the fingers, and may require medication or physical therapy to manage.

4. Allergic reactions

An allergic reaction can cause finger swelling. This may be due to contact with an allergen, such as a plant, or an insect bite or sting.

Treatment for an allergic reaction may include antihistamines or a trip to the emergency room, depending on the severity of the reaction.

5. Circulatory problems

Circulatory problems can cause finger swelling, such as:.

Lymphedema
Blood clots
Raynaud’s disease

These conditions can cause swelling in the fingers and other parts of the body, and may require medical treatment to manage.

6. Medications

Some medications can cause finger swelling as a side effect. This may include:.

Blood pressure medication
Antidepressants
Birth control pills
Hormone replacement therapy

If you suspect that a medication is causing your finger swelling, contact your doctor to discuss alternative treatment options.

When to See a Doctor

In most cases, finger swelling is a temporary and mild symptom that can be treated at home. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact a doctor as soon as possible:.