Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx or hand eczema is also another type of eczema, but usually occurs only on the palms of the hands, sides of fingers and soles of the feet. The word “pompholyx” is a Greek word meaning “hand and bubble” due to its condition.

Symptoms

Like the other types of eczema, the itchy rash is the common symptom for Dyshidrotic eczema, but the difference is that the blisters are fluid-filled It usually starts as itchy bumps on the side of the fingers and gradually turns into a rash and gets scaly which will start peeling off. The affected area may also sweat excessively. Patients often complain of an intense itching and burning sensation which overtime can lead to a thickening of the skin.

It is still an argument in the medical community over whether this type of eczema affects males or females more.

How Is It Caused?

The actual reason that triggers this type of eczema is still unknown, but a number of causes are known to drive the skin reaction. Stress is believed to worsen and be one of the causes for dyshidrotic eczema. It is also thought that certain allergens such as nickel can also trigger the condition. But the most surprising is that the antibodies or immunoglobulin infusions in the body, which are known to fight against various diseases, have been known to trigger dyshidrotic eczema.

Treatment

Oral antihistamines like Piriton, which are easily available over the counter, are known to ease the itching sensation in this type of eczema.

Like any other form of eczema, dry skin is a common symptom for this condition which takes hold and become worse over time. Keeping the skin hydrated and moisturized with a good quality moisturizer and emollients is necessary to prevent breakouts. Apply these after a thorough hand wash.  Extra attention should be given while washing the hands in order to avoid over scrubbing with hand towels as this may rub off any protective oils that are still in your skin. If possible, consider using a soft cotton towel.

 

Dyshidrotic Eczema

In case, you don’t see any good results, then you can try using steroid creams, but be warned not to over use these creams every day, as they are known to have many side effects on humans in the long run. The most basic steroid creams are easily available over the counter. If these over the counter ones are not effective then consult your doctor who can prescribe a stronger one. These creams are intended to be used only for brief periods in order to quickly quell any inflammation.

If the use of steroid creams doesn’t suit you, then there are also a number of alternative eczema treatment options that you may want to consider such as tea tree oil and salt water soaks which are also known to ease the condition.

Prevention

As a saying goes “prevention is better than a cure.” Eczema breakouts should be prevented before they have a chance to take hold and worsen and the condition goes out of control.

Sadly, it is difficult to identify the exact or sole cause of trigger, even if one exists. It is good to find out if you are allergic to any known allergens, especially those which you consume as part of  your diet. The best way for this step is to go for a full allergy testing.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Tagged with: dry skin • dyshidrotic eczema • eczema • itchy rash • types of eczema

Filed under: Types Of Eczema

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