Swelling of the face and hands

Swelling of the face and hands, known as edema, arises from the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues of these areas. In the context of Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS), this swelling occurs because the obstruction of the superior vena cava impedes blood flow, leading to increased pressure in the veins that drain into it. This pressure buildup causes fluid to leak from the capillaries into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling. This is particularly noticeable in the face, neck, and upper extremities (including the hands). The swelling may be accompanied by a sense of fullness or tightness and becomes more pronounced upon waking up in the morning.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology