King Charles's 'sausage fingers' explained as doctor blames oedema for inflamation

and are , which kicked off on October 18 and will run through until October 26.

since he became the country's head of state in September 2022 and is the biggest trip he has made since starting cancer treatment in February.

Their six-day visit to the Commonwealth country will involve meeting political and community leaders, while also celebrating the nation's people, culture, and heritage.

On the second day of the tour, shocking scenes showed Indigenous politician Lidia Thorpe after he finished an address at Australia's Parliament House.

Speculating on current and former pictures from tours, Charles's red and swollen fingers have long caused a stir as people have speculated what could be causing the condition, as searches for .

In recent years, people have expressed curiosity and the NHS has said there are numerous things that could cause swelling.

A condition called oedema causes swelling in arms and hands as a result of a build-up of fluid, although this can sometimes go away on its own.

Symptoms of an oedema include swollen or puffy arms or hands, or shiny, stretched or red skin, which can also affect the ankles, legs and feet, which could be what is affecting the King's fingers.

If these symptoms do not clear up after a few days, it is recommended the sufferer contacts their GP for advice.

If any of these strike, 111 should be called or urgent advice from a doctor sought:

• You have swelling in only one arm or hand and there's no obvious cause, such as an injury
• The swelling is severe, painful or starts very suddenly
• The swollen area is red or feels hot to the touch
• Your arm or hand is swollen and your temperature is very high, or you feel hot and shivery
• You have diabetes and your arm or hand is swollen

Anyone feeling short of breath or struggling to breathe, or if their chest feels tight, heavy or painful, should call 999 as this could be due to a blood clot in the lungs.

Speaking to , Dr Paula Oliveira, of outlined what could possibly be causing His Majesty's red and swollen fingers.

She said: ", a condition that occurs when kidneys fail to function as they should."

The symptoms of oedema can be relieved by making some small yet effective adjustments, such as raising swollen legs on a chair or pillow when possible.

The NHS also advises getting some regular gentle exercise, such as walking, wearing wide comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole, and keeping hands and feet dry.

The health body added: "Treatment for swelling or oedema that does not go away on its own will depend on the cause.

"Speak to your GP about making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or going on a low-salt diet."