Published on: 6/18/2025
Why might my forearm be swollen even if I haven't injured it?
Forearm swelling without injury can be caused by infections, blood clots, allergic reactions, or underlying medical conditions affecting circulation or lymph flow.
Explanation
Even without an injury, your forearm may swell due to:
Infections: Skin infections like cellulitis can cause swelling, redness, and warmth. Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis): A clot in the arm’s veins can block blood flow, causing swelling. Allergic reactions: Insect bites, stings, or contact with allergens may cause localized swelling. Lymphedema: Fluid buildup due to lymphatic system blockage often after surgery or radiation. Venous insufficiency: Poor vein function can cause fluid pooling in the arm. Inflammatory conditions: Arthritis or other inflammatory diseases may cause swelling without injury. Heart, kidney, or liver problems: These can lead to fluid retention and swelling in limbs.
If swelling develops suddenly, worsens, or comes with pain, redness, or fever, seek medical attention promptly.
(References)
- Dalton DM, Munigangaiah S, Subramaniam T, & McCabe JP. (2014). Acute bilateral spontaneous forearm compartment syndrome. Hand surgery : an international journal devoted to hand and upper limb surgery and related research : journal of the Asia-Pacific Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand, 24641749.
- Ciocon JO, & Galindo-Ciocon D. (1998). Arm edema, subclavian thrombosis, and pacemakers. Angiology, 9555935.
- Nakamura G, Abe M, & Kumano H. (2019). Acute Compartment Syndrome of the Forearm Secondary .... The journal of hand surgery Asian-Pacific volume, 30760147.
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