What are the potential causes of swelling in the right arm and hand?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Swelling in the right arm and hand is a common symptom with several possible causes, including:

Injury or trauma (sprains, fractures, or muscle strain)
Infection (cellulitis or wound infection)
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
Lymphedema (fluid buildup from a blocked lymphatic system)
Allergic reactions (insect bites or medication reactions)
Circulation problems (heart, kidney, or vascular issues)

Because these causes range from mild to serious—some requiring urgent care—identifying the likely reason quickly matters. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to assess your symptoms in minutes and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Swelling in the right arm and hand may result from:

Injury or trauma: Sprains, strains, fractures, or repetitive use can cause swelling. Infections: Skin infections like cellulitis or abscesses can lead to swelling, redness, and warmth. Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis): Clots can block blood flow in veins of the arm and hand, causing swelling. Lymphedema: Blockage or damage to lymphatic vessels, often after surgery or radiation, may cause fluid buildup. Allergic reactions: Bites, stings, or exposure to allergens can cause localized swelling. Venous insufficiency: Poor blood flow can lead to fluid accumulation in the arm and hand. Systemic causes: Conditions affecting heart, kidney, or liver function can lead to swelling, often on both sides but sometimes more noticeable on one side.

If swelling is sudden, painful, worsening, or associated with other symptoms like fever or difficulty moving the arm or hand, use our free symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine if you need prompt medical care.

(References)

Rainey CE, Taysom DA, & Rosenthal MD. (2014). Upper extremity deep venous thrombosis. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 24684195.
Kidd M, & Broderick V. (2014). An unusual presentation of a swollen arm: a case report. Journal of medical case reports, 24468221.
Jackson SS, & O'Brien MJ. (2014). upper extremity deep venous thrombosis in a 19-year-old .... The Physician and sportsmedicine, 25244713.

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