Swelling can be caused by a number of issues. If you’ve strained or sprained yourself, for instance, you’ll likely see the affected area grow in size, or if you’ve had some sort of accident (such as a slip and fall or auto accident) then you may find that the area is puffy and sore.
Here are a few ways to get relief if swelling is causing you discomfort or concern:
Ice – One of the most basic things you can do to reduce swelling is to put ice on it. In addition to getting it back to normal size, it also numbs the area so that the pain and discomfort isn’t quite so bad.
Over the Counter Pain Medication – At the onset of swelling, take some ibuprofen and it will reduce the inflammation, allowing the swelling to come down to decrease if not go away completely.
Elevate the Area – If possible, take the swollen area and elevate it. For example, if you have a swollen ankle, lie on the couch with a pillow under it so that it is higher than your heart. Or, if it is a swollen wrist that you are contending with, put your elbow on a pillow and hold your hand upright. This will keep the blood and other fluids from pooling in the area and making the swelling even worse.
Rest the Affected Area – This is probably the best thing you can do for any injury or inflammation that causes swelling. Keep moving and working the area and you’re going to risk making the injury worse or, at a minimum, not allowing it to heal as quickly as it could so stay still and you’ll feel better sooner.
See a Doctor – If you’ve tried all of these options and the swelling won’t go away, it may be time to seek medical attention. You might have something going on inside that needs more than what you can provide yourself.
Take care of your body and it will take care of you – for a long time.
