While arm swelling, in and of itself, may not seem very serious, it is often a symptoms of a more serious condition. The most common causes of arm swelling include a broken bone, a strained or sprained muscle, or an infection. In some cases, water retention associated with a diet rich in sodium or a poorly functioning cardiovascular system can also be to blame for arm swelling.

One of the most common causes of arm swelling is a broken bone. Typically, arm swelling that is caused by a broken bone comes on almost immediately after the break occurs, and is isolated to one particular area. As with any broken body part, it is important that those who are injured to seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Usually once the broken bone is treated and placed in a cast, the swelling associated with the injury will decrease relatively quickly. Swelling that does not go down within a short period of time should be evaluated for possible infection.

Another similar cause of arm swelling is a strain or sprain to one of the muscles of the arm. As with a broken bone, arm swelling associated with a strain or sprain comes on very rapidly after the injury occurs. Usually, the best way to treat swelling associated with one of these injuries is simply to rest the affected body part, and use an ice pack to decrease inflammation. Individuals who have suffered from this type of injury should be sure to wrap the ice pack in a clean, dry towel in order to prevent potential skin burns associated with ice pack use.

In some cases, an infection can also lead to serious arm swelling. The most common causes of arm swelling brought on by an infection usually occur as a result of a broken bone, or a cut, scrape, or other type of abrasion. In serious infections, prescription medication may be required to completely treat the condition.

Arm swelling is also sometimes caused by fluid retention, and occurs most often in the lower end of the extremity, near the hand. Usually, swelling associated with water retention is caused by a diet rich in salt, or a poorly functioning cardiovascular system. Reducing salt intake and taking measures to improve cardiovascular health can have a great impact on arm swelling associated with fluid retention.