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What Are the Causes of Unexplained Swelling?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

A troubling symptom with many potential causes, unexplained swelling can be caused by an allergic reaction to foods, medications, or environmental substances, especially when the swelling involves the face, lips, and throat. Medical conditions affecting the heart, kidneys, or liver can sometimes cause swelling in various areas of the body. Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or arthritis may cause unexplained swelling of the joints.

Any unexplained swelling involving the face, lips, or tongue should be reported to a doctor immediately, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by a rash or difficulty breathing. This combination of symptoms may indicate a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Emergency medical care is necessary in cases of anaphylaxis, as a lack of oxygen to the brain and other internal organs can cause death within a matter of minutes.

Eating lots of salt can cause bloating and swelling.
Eating lots of salt can cause bloating and swelling.

Liver or kidney disease can cause unexplained swelling throughout the body, particularly in the hands, feet, and abdomen. Certain cardiac conditions, such as congestive heart failure, may also involve this symptom. Blood tests and other diagnostic testing methods, including x-rays or ultrasound, may be needed in order to properly diagnose these conditions.

Lymph node infection may cause swelling in the groin.
Lymph node infection may cause swelling in the groin.

Arthritis is often the cause of unexplained swelling involving the joints. Other symptoms may include pain and difficulty moving the affected joints. Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be used to help control these symptoms. Autoimmune diseases such as lupus may lead to swelling of the joints as well as other parts of the body. In some cases, swelling may be caused by a physical injury, sunburn, or poor nutritional habits.

Liver or kidney disease may cause swelling in the hands, feet, and abdomen.
Liver or kidney disease may cause swelling in the hands, feet, and abdomen.

Lymph node infections or certain forms of cancer may cause swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin. Prescription antibiotics are generally effective at treating infections. If cancer is suspected, a variety of medical tests may be needed in order to accurately diagnose the cause of the swelling.

Thyroid disease, the use of certain medications, or standing for prolonged periods of time may sometimes lead to the development of unexplained swelling. This symptom can also be caused by having too much sodium in the diet. Although swelling does not usually indicate the presence of a serious illness, it is important to always report any unusual symptoms to a doctor so that an accurate diagnosis can be obtained and proper medical treatment can begin.

Discussion Comments

Rundocuri

Unexplained swelling of any type requires a trip to the doctor. There are too many causes, some that can be quite serious, to make a diagnosis yourself if you are experiencing any form of swelling with no explanation.

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    • Eating lots of salt can cause bloating and swelling.
      By: Aaron Amat
      Eating lots of salt can cause bloating and swelling.
    • Lymph node infection may cause swelling in the groin.
      By: zagorodnaya
      Lymph node infection may cause swelling in the groin.
    • Liver or kidney disease may cause swelling in the hands, feet, and abdomen.
      By: Kalim
      Liver or kidney disease may cause swelling in the hands, feet, and abdomen.
    • Blood tests, x-rays, or ultrasound may needed to diagnose the cause of unexplained swelling.
      By: Max Tactic
      Blood tests, x-rays, or ultrasound may needed to diagnose the cause of unexplained swelling.
    • Sunburns can cause swelling.
      By: Rostislav Sedlacek
      Sunburns can cause swelling.
    • Unexplained facial or throat swelling may be anaphylaxis, and emergency medical care is required.
      By: jinga80
      Unexplained facial or throat swelling may be anaphylaxis, and emergency medical care is required.
    • Unexplained swelling in the jaw may be related to dental infections.
      By: sergmar
      Unexplained swelling in the jaw may be related to dental infections.
    • Medical conditions affecting the kidneys can cause swelling in various areas of the body.
      By: 3drenderings
      Medical conditions affecting the kidneys can cause swelling in various areas of the body.
    • Certain heart conditions can be detected with an ultrasound.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      Certain heart conditions can be detected with an ultrasound.