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How to remove rings from swollen fingers

Having a ring on with swollen fingers can pose a problem if you want to take it off. While a jeweller may be able to cut the ring off, often people do not like this option because it will ruin the ring.

Are there other ways to remove rings?

The first way that is normally recommended is to use oil of some sort. You can try the more common oils such as vegetable oil, coconut oil and even baby oil. Butter may work, as well as petroleum jelly and hand lotions.

If these do not work then there is another way. This is called the RICE method.

Rest

Start by rinsing the finger in cold water, preferable with ice and then holding it above your head for 10 minutes.

Ice

Remove the finger from the ice water and gently squeeze it to compress and help the ring off.

Compress

One way to compress the finger is to wrap dental floss around it. Another method to compress the finger is to wrap sellotape tightly around it.

Elevate

Elevate the hand for ten minutes at a time to reduce swelling.

When should you seek help?

You should seek help before attempting to remove a ring if there is any question of an infection causing the swelling.

Be aware that prolonged swelling may cause nerve damage and in extreme cases cut off the flow of blood.

Final thoughts

While it can be annoying to have a ring which does not come off, there is a health issue which makes it important that the ring be removed and not left indefinitely on a swollen finger.

Be gentle when twisting the ring to move it down the finger and use a lubricant to stop any abrasion in the area.

 

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