Concerns About Hand Swelling
Hi there! I’m a 28-year-old individual (female to male) and I’ve been experiencing some unusual changes in my right hand over the past few months. Specifically, I’ve noticed that it appears somewhat swollen or puffy, and the color of my knuckles and fingers seems off. This condition tends to worsen when I engage in activities like cleaning, though I feel like it’s consistently present. My left hand also experiences similar symptoms occasionally, but to a much lesser extent and frequency. I’ve tried using fingertip-less compression gloves, but they seem to contribute to increased swelling in my fingers. I’m reaching out to gather thoughts or ideas regarding what might be happening with my hand. Thank you for any insights! Medical Background: Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, prediabetes, suspected fibromyalgia, and ADHD. Current medications include Creon, Trikafta, duloxetine, atomoxetine, and testosterone injections.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 6:01:12 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some concerning hand swelling and color changes, which can certainly impact your daily activities and quality of life. Based on what you’ve shared, several factors related to your medical history or symptoms could be at play here.
Explanation
Swelling in the hand can occur for various reasons, and your existing conditions may influence this. Common causes of hand swelling include fluid retention, inflammatory conditions, or even repetitive strain from activities like cleaning. Given that your symptoms worsen with activity, it may suggest an overuse issue or inflammation. Additionally, individuals with cystic fibrosis and diabetes can sometimes experience changes in circulation or fluid balance, which might also contribute to these symptoms.
Compression gloves can sometimes exacerbate swelling if they restrict blood flow or are not the right fit, so it’s worth considering this as a possibility as well.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily record of the swelling and color changes, noting the times they worsen and any activities that seem to affect them. This will be helpful for understanding patterns and triggers.
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Activity Modification: Try to limit the duration of activities that exacerbate your symptoms. For example, take regular breaks during cleaning to rest your hands and encourage circulation.
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Elevation and Rest: When resting, elevate your hand to help reduce swelling. This can help with circulation and decrease fluid buildup.
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Ice Therapy: If your hand feels particularly swollen after activities, applying a cold pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
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Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet, which can help manage overall inflammation in your body.
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Consider Adjustments to Compression: If fingertip-less gloves are causing increased swelling, consider trying different styles or sizes that may provide support without constricting blood flow.
If your symptoms persist, worsen, or if you notice other concerning symptoms like severe pain, numbness, or a significant change in the appearance of your hand, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for a more thorough evaluation tailored to your specific health conditions.
Let me know if you need more detailed information or assistance with anything else!
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