What Is Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Dyshidrotic eczema, referred to as pompholyx or dyshidrosis as well, represents a prolonged skin condition marked by the formation of small blisters and parched, severely pruritic skin. The blisters usually develop on the sides of the fingers, palms of the hand, soles of the feet, or toes. Dyshidrotic eczema accounts for about five to 20 percent of all cases. The actual cause of dyshidrosis is still unknown. However, it can be related to other skin conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic conditions, such as hay fever. In addition, eruptions can be seasonal in individuals with nasal allergies.
Who Gets Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Dyshidrotic eczema can affect anyone. However, it predominantly impacts individuals in the 20 to 40 age range and exhibits a higher occurrence in women, being twice as prevalent in comparison to men. It is also common in people with:
-
A family history of dyshidrotic eczema or other types of eczema.
-
Who often develop allergic reactions when they touch an allergen (a substance that induces an allergic reaction).
-
Who receives immunoglobulin infusions.
What Are the Indications and Manifestations of Dyshidrotic Eczema?
The small, firm, itchy blisters on the palms, fingers, and soles are the characteristic signs of dyshidrotic eczema. These blisters usually pop up in clusters. The other common symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema include:
-
Itchy, scaly skin on or around the blisters.
-
Burning pain before blisters appear.
-
Increased sweat around the blisters.
-
Dry, red, cracked skin that appears as blisters fade.
-
The skin on the fingers, hands, and feet may thicken upon scratching.
-
In severe cases, the blisters may combine to form more prominent blisters.
-
Sometimes, large blisters may become infected, especially when they are scratched. Signs of infection include:
-
Pain.
-
Crusting.
-
Swelling.
-
Pus in the blisters.
-
The symptoms associated with dyshidrotic eczema can come and go. They may last for two to three weeks at a time.
What Are the Risk Factors of Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Several triggers can cause dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups, including:
-
Stress: Dyshidrotic eczema seems to be more common during times of emotional or physical stress.
-
Sensitive Skin: Individuals who develop a rash following exposure to specific irritants often find themselves more susceptible to dyshidrotic eczema.
-
Exposure to Certain Substances: Prolonged exposure to cement, cobalt, nickel, and chromium used in an industrial setting may trigger dyshidrotic eczema. Flare-ups of dyshidrotic eczema can be triggered by other allergies such as hay fever or food allergies.
-
Profuse Sweating or Moisture: Frequent sweaty or wet hands or feet can trigger dyshidrotic eczema.
-
Atopic Dermatitis: Some individuals with atopic dermatitis can develop dyshidrotic eczema.
Is Dyshidrotic Eczema Contagious?
Dyshidrotic eczema is not contagious. Therefore, it cannot transmit from one to another. However, if someone scratches these blisters, they might get broken, leading to infections. Seek assistance from a healthcare provider. They may recommend antibiotics to clear the infection.
Are There Any Complications of Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Most people with dyshidrotic experience just an itchy inconvenience. For others, the pain and intense itching may restrict the movement of hands or feet. In addition, severe scratching can increase the chance of a bacterial infection in the affected skin.
How Is Dyshidrotic Eczema Diagnosed?
The healthcare provider bases the diagnosis on physical examination and medical history. The provider thoroughly examines the affected areas and may ask specific questions about recently used new skincare or cosmetic products, wearing new jewelry, or eating new foods. Furthermore, healthcare professionals might conduct various tests to exclude other conditions that share similarities with dyshidrotic eczema, such as contact dermatitis, athlete's foot, and bullous pemphigoid. The tests may include the following:
-
Allergy test.
-
Blood tests.
How to Rid of Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Getting rid of dyshidrotic eczema often starts with an at-home skincare routine. Home care treatment may include:
-
Apply wet, cool compresses to relieve itching and irritation. Repeat this step three to four times daily.
-
Use lukewarm water for washing hands.
-
Soaking hands and feet in cool water improves the associated symptoms and speeds healing.
-
Take rings or other jewelry off before washing hands; otherwise, moisture may get trapped under the rings and cause more blisters.
-
Avoid scratching or itching, as it can break the skin and worsen the condition.
-
Apply moisturizers daily after showering or washing to improve dry skin.
-
Thoroughly dry hands and feet after bathing or swimming.
-
If allergies trigger eczema, try to avoid things that trigger it.
-
Avoid direct contact with ingredients or products that cause skin irritation.
-
Use stress management techniques.
-
Non-prescription (OTC) remedies like topical corticosteroid creams or ointments, as well as antihistamine medications such as Diphenhydramine or Loratadine, can provide relief from inflammation and itching.
Prescription Medications and Other Treatments:
For severe cases of dyshidrotic eczema, the healthcare provider may prescribe the following medications or treatments to help relieve the symptoms:
-
Corticosteroids: Corticosteroid creams and ointments can help quicken the disappearance of the blisters. Moist compresses may also be applied after applying corticosteroids to improve the absorption of the medication. In more severe instances, a healthcare professional may recommend corticosteroid oral medications such as Prednisone. However, long-term use of steroids can cause adverse effects.
-
Immune-Suppressing Ointments: Medications like Tacrolimus and Pimecrolimus may be helpful for those who want to restrict their exposure to steroids. However, these medications can pose a risk of skin infections.
-
Botulinum Toxin Injections: Some providers may advise Botulinum toxin injections to treat severe dyshidrosis cases.
-
Phototherapy: If other treatments are ineffective, the provider may recommend phototherapy that uses ultraviolet light from special lamps, usually ultraviolet B (UVB). These light waves can help treat certain skin conditions, such as dyshidrotic eczema. However, UVB can cause permanent dark spots in individuals with darker skin tones.
Most people respond well to an at-home skincare routine and over-the-counter medications or need prescription-strength corticosteroid creams or ointments, such as Clobetasol. Dyshidrotic eczema often recovers with treatment, but it may return later.
How Is Dyshidrotic Eczema Prevented?
Dyshidrotic eczema is a chronic condition that may come and go throughout life. Because the cause of dyshidrotic eczema is usually unknown, there is no sure way to prevent this condition. However, good skin care practices can help protect the skin from flare-ups.
Conclusion
Dyshidrotic eczema is a long-lasting skin condition characterized by intense itching and discomfort. Over-the-counter medications and at-home treatments can treat mild cases of dyshidrotic eczema. In more serious situations, prescription medications or alternative therapies may be necessary. Identifying triggers and adhering to a consistent skincare regimen can be effective in both averting and managing flare-ups of dyshidrotic eczema. See a healthcare provider if someone develops painful blisters and itchy skin.
