Have you ever looked down at your hands or feet and noticed they appear puffier than usual? Maybe your rings feel tighter, or your shoes don’t fit like they used to. Swelling—especially in the hands and feet—is a common issue that many people experience at some point. But what causes it, and when should you seek medical attention?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Swelling?
Swelling, also known as edema, happens when excess fluid builds up in the tissues. It can affect any part of your body but is most common in the hands, feet, ankles, and legs due to gravity.
Mild swelling may come and go, but persistent or severe swelling could point to an underlying health issue.
