Definition:
Dyshidrotic Eczema is a skin condition which is characterized by small blisters on the hands or feet. Dyshidrotic eczema which is also known as dyshidrotic dermatitis is generally defined as an itchy rash limited to the hands usually on the palms, sides of the fingers and sometimes on the feet. Dyshidrotic eczema manifests as small, fluid-filled blisters. Its cause is unknown.Dyshidrotic eczema often comes and goes with episodes more common in warm weather.
Dyshidrotic eczema is a recurrent disease of the palmar and plantar skin characterized by sudden eruptions of clear, mostly pruritic vesicles.
Dyshidrotic Eczema is also known as acute vesiculobullous hand eczema,
Cheiropompholyx, Dyshidrotic eczema, Pompholyx and Podopompholyx.
It is an acute, recurrent dermatosis or chronic of the fingers, palms and soles which are characterized by a sudden onset of many deep-seated pruritic, clear vesicles. Recurrence is common and for many can be chronic.
Conditions:
Dyshidrotic Eczema condition is not contagious to others, but due to its unsightly nature it can cause significant distress in regard to social interactions with others. It is twice more common in women than men. It is not contagious.
Symptoms:
Small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles appear on the fingers, hands, and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, palms, toes and soles. Those blisters cause intense itching and scaly patches of skin that flake constantly or become red, painful and cracked.
- Blisters may itch, cause pain, or produce no symptoms at all.
- A nail which is on affected fingers, or toes, may take on a pitted appearance.
- Fluid from the blisters is serum, which is accumulated between the irritated skin cells. It is not sweated as was previously thought.
Causes:
Dyshidrotic Eczema risk factors include stress, exposure to metal salts, allergic and contact dermatitis. The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is not known, but it occasionally appears to be seasonal.
Allergic reactions may be attributed to soy, teas, caffeine in coffees, and carbonated beverages.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is made by the appearance and location of the rash. A personal or family history of allergy of any type, including asthma, hay fever or also supports the diagnosis .They are,
- Patch’s testing is used to exclude underlying contact allergies.
- These include skin tests by intradermal injection, patch tests, or scratch.
- There is also a blood test available that measures the levels of antibodies to suspected allergens.
Treatment:
- Anti-itch medicines can be taken on the mouth.
- Strong steroid creams or ointments
- Moisturizers
- Aloe Vera may be applied after cleaning hands.
- Avoid soaps, which contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate.
- Rinsing the affected areas briefly in surgical spirit is very effective. It will work to clear the blisters within hours if they have been pricked open first.
When the affected area is itchy, apply a mixture of Vaseline and hemp oil, which covers finger condom. Replace every two hours and leave uncovered for a half-hour between applications. Do not scratch on the blisters. You should avoid frequent bathing, irritating substances, and hand washing, which can make itching worse.