Published on: 6/18/2025
What might cause a swollen forearm without pain?
A swollen forearm without pain may result from fluid buildup, mild injury, lymphedema, venous issues, or even medication side effects. It’s important to monitor for changes or additional symptoms.
Explanation
Painless forearm swelling may be caused by:
Lymphedema: A blockage in the lymphatic system can lead to gradual fluid buildup without immediate pain. Venous insufficiency: Poor circulation can cause fluid to collect in the arm over time, often without pain. Mild or unnoticed injury: A minor strain or bump may cause swelling even if it doesn’t hurt. Medication side effects: Some medications (e.g., certain blood pressure drugs or steroids) can cause swelling. Allergic reactions: Swelling from a bite or contact with an allergen may not always be painful. Systemic fluid retention: Conditions affecting the heart, liver, or kidneys can cause swelling in the limbs, sometimes without discomfort. Post-surgical changes: If you’ve had recent surgery involving the arm or nearby areas, swelling may develop painlessly.
If the swelling persists, increases, or is accompanied by new symptoms (such as redness, heat, or limited movement), it’s best to consult a healthcare provider.
(References)
- Murray EC. (2011). Painless arm swelling. Scottish medical journal, 21873726.
- Iwata H, Okamoto H, Kawaguchi Y, Endo K, Joyo Y, Aiba H, et al. (2021). Insidious Onset Compartment Syndrome of the Forearm in .... The journal of hand surgery Asian-Pacific volume, 34380404.
- Ng J, Makaram N, & Mitchell S. (2019). Lessons learned in the challenging case of evolving .... BMJ case reports, 31712235.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about symptoms
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.