Swollen feet and hands can feel both irritating and concerning, especially if shoes or rings feel tight, or your skin feels stretched. Swelling is often caused by fluid retention in the tissue (edema) and can occur during periods when the body is under extra stress, such as during pregnancy, very sedentary work, or with certain types of medication. Fortunately, in many cases, you can alleviate the discomfort yourself with simple, practical steps – and at the same time, keep an eye out for signs that mean you should contact a doctor.

When fluid accumulates in the tissue, it can cause swelling, typically in the ankles, feet, hands, and fingers. This can happen gradually or more suddenly.

• Press a finger on the swollen skin for 5 seconds. If an indentation forms that slowly evens out, it could be a sign of fluid in the tissue (so-called pitting edema).
• Notice if the swelling is equal on both sides, and if it changes throughout the day.
• Check if rings, watches, or shoes suddenly feel tighter than usual.

There are many possible causes, and often the explanation is harmless. Common triggers can be:

• Spending a long time in the same position (sitting or standing), which can affect fluid flow in the body.
• Pregnancy, where hormonal changes and pressure from the uterus can increase the tendency to swell.
• High salt intake, which can cause the body to retain more fluid.
• Medication, e.g., certain types of blood pressure medication or anti-inflammatory drugs (talk to a doctor if you suspect side effects).
• Diseases affecting the heart, kidneys, liver, or lymphatic system can also cause swelling and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Pain, redness, warmth in the skin, fever, or a general feeling of being unwell can point to something that needs quicker assessment.

During pregnancy, swollen feet and hands are very common, but it should still be taken seriously if it changes significantly or feels "wrong."

• Elevate your feet several times daily, preferably with your ankles above heart level for short intervals.
• Move your ankles and toes regularly, especially if you sit a lot.
• Change positions often and avoid sitting with your legs crossed for extended periods.
• Choose shoes with plenty of space and stable support.

Important: Contact a doctor or midwife if you experience sudden, pronounced swelling (especially in the face/hands) or if you also have, for example, headache, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, or feel distinctly unwell. These are symptoms that require immediate assessment.

You can often reduce swelling with a combination of rest, movement, and routines.

• Movement in small doses: Short walks or light ankle circles can support the body's natural fluid transport.
• Skin and comfort: Moisturize dry, tight skin to reduce discomfort (without it alone removing the swelling).
• Drink when thirsty and avoid "overcompensating" with extremely much or little fluid. If you are unsure, ask a healthcare professional.
• Reduce salt intake if you know you consume a lot through processed foods or snacks.

It's a good idea to contact a doctor if the swelling:

• is new and persists for several days without clear explanation
• is only in one hand/arm or one leg (especially if there is also pain, redness, or warmth)
• comes on suddenly and is severe
• is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or feeling faint (call 112)

If you are pregnant or have known heart, kidney, or liver diseases, the threshold for getting it assessed is typically lower. It's not about being overly fussy - but about timely precaution.

If your swollen feet and hands are related to pregnancy, it can also help to prioritize comfort and support in other areas of the body, so you put as little strain on yourself as possible in everyday life. Some people, for example, find that support around the abdomen gives them more energy to change position and move more often. Here, a support belt can be relevant: Support belts or specifically a Maternity Support Belt.

• Sundhedslex.dk: Swollen feet (water in the feet) https://www.sundhedslex.dk/haevede-foedder.htm
• Mediconline.dk: Swollen feet - causes, symptoms, and treatment https://mediconline.dk/svullende-fodder.html
• Doctorinfo.dk: Swollen arms and hands (edema) https://www.doctorinfo.dk/betingelser/haevede-arme-og-haender-odem/