Differential Diagnosis for Swelling in Hands or Feet
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dependent Edema: This is the most common cause of swelling in hands or feet, often due to gravity's effect on fluid distribution in the body, especially when sitting or standing for long periods. It can also be a sign of poor circulation or heart failure.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. It's a common condition that requires prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Lymphedema: Swelling caused by impaired lymph drainage, which can be primary (inherited) or secondary (due to surgery, infection, or trauma).
- Venous Insufficiency: A condition where the veins have problems returning blood to the heart, leading to fluid accumulation and swelling in the legs and feet.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can cause swelling in the hands and feet due to the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins, usually in the legs, which can be life-threatening if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
- Compartment Syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment can lead to nerve and muscle damage, often requiring emergency surgical intervention.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening condition caused by a severe infection, which can lead to swelling, among other symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells form lumps in various parts of the body, including the skin, which can cause swelling in the hands and feet.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and swelling in the hands and feet, often associated with other conditions like myeloproliferative disorders.
- Primary Amyloidosis: A condition where abnormal proteins (amyloid) accumulate in various tissues, including the skin, leading to swelling and other symptoms.