Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of AgustÃ­n Ruiz. Experiencing swollen fingers means your fingers are appearing larger in size, and there may be itching or burning. There are many causes of swollen fingers, including a finger injury or infection. There may also be serious causes such as kidney disease, heart failure, lung disease, cirrhosis, thyroid disease or malignant lymphoedema. If the swelling does not go away or becomes unbearable, you should see a doctor.