Dyshidrosis is a skin disorder characterized by the formation of tiny, fluid-filled blisters on the palms of the hands and the sides of the fingers. The soles of the feet are sometimes impacted as well.
The blisters that form in dyshidrosis usually last three weeks and cause severe itching. When the dyshidrosis blisters dry, your skin may become scaly. Blisters usually reappear before your skin heals entirely from the prior blisters.
The most common treatment for dyshidrosis is to apply lotions or ointments to the afflicted area. In extreme situations, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid tablets or injections, such as prednisone. Dyshidrosis is also known as pompholyx and dyshidrotic eczema.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DYSHIDROSIS?
Blisters caused by dyshidrosis are most typically found on the sides of the fingers and the palms. The soles of the feet are sometimes impacted as well. The blisters are often tiny — around the diameter of a regular pencil lead — and clustered, with a tapioca-like look.
Small blisters may mix to become bigger blisters in more severe situations. Dyshidrosis-affected skin can be unpleasant and irritating. In approximately three weeks, the blisters will dry and peel off.
Dyshidrosis is a condition that can last for months or years.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF DYSHIDROSIS?
The precise etiology of dyshidrosis is unknown. It is linked to a related skin ailment known as atopic dermatitis (eczema), as well as allergy disorders such as hay fever. In patients with nasal allergies, eruptions may be seasonal.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR DYSHIDROSIS?
The following are risk factors for dyshidrosis:
- Stress: Dyshidrosis tends to be more prevalent after mental or physical stress.
- Being exposed to certain metals: These include cobalt and nickel, which are typically used in industrial settings.
- Skin that is sensitive: People who get a rash after coming into touch with specific irritants are more prone to get dyshidrosis.
- Atopic dermatitis: Dyhidrotic eczema can occur in certain patients with atopic dermatitis.
WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF DYSHIDROSIS?
Most persons with dyshidrosis see it as an itching discomfort. Others may be unable to use their hands or feet due to discomfort and itching. Scratching excessively might raise the likelihood of a bacterial infection developing in the afflicted skin.
HOW IS DYSHIDROSIS DIAGNOSED?
A physical exam is usually sufficient to identify dyshidrosis. Although no lab test can definitively establish a diagnosis of dyshidrosis, your doctor may recommend tests to rule out other skin diseases with similar symptoms.
A scrape of your skin, for example, can be checked for the type of fungus that causes athlete's foot. Exposing sections of your skin to various substances might reveal skin allergies and sensitivities.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR DYSHIDROSIS?
Treatment options may include: depending on the severity of your indications and symptoms:
- Corticosteroids: High-potency corticosteroid lotions and ointments may hasten the blisters' elimination. Plastic wrap around the treated area might help with absorption. Moist compresses can also be used after a corticosteroid treatment to improve drug absorption.
Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone, in severe instances. Long-term steroid usage can have substantial adverse effects.
- Phototherapy: If other treatments fail, your doctor may offer a form of light therapy that combines UV light exposure with medications that make your skin more susceptible to the effects of this type of light.
- Immune-suppressing ointments: People who desire to decrease their steroid exposure may benefit from medications such as tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel). An increased chance of skin infections is one of these medications' adverse effects.
- Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections may be recommended by certain clinicians to treat severe instances of dyshidrosis.
HOME REMEDIES FOR DYSHIDROSIS
At-home care may include:
- Using compresses: Wet, cold compresses may aid with itching relief.
- Taking anti-itch medications: Itching can be relieved with over-the-counter antihistamine drugs such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin, Alavert, and others).
- Using witch hazel: Soaking the damaged regions in witch hazel may help them recover faster.
HOW CAN DYSHIDROSIS BE PREVENTED?
Because the cause of dyshidrosis is unclear, there is no established method to avoid it. You can help prevent the illness by reducing stress and avoiding metal salts like cobalt and nickel.
Good skin care techniques may also aid to protect the skin. These are some examples:
- Washing your hands with mild soap and lukewarm water, then thoroughly drying them
- Regular moisturizing
- Putting on gloves
CONCLUSION
Dyshidrotic eczema is a common skin disorder that is itchy and unpleasant. You may just experience it once, or you may experience it intermittently throughout your life. If you experience painful blisters and itching skin, consult your doctor. Mild instances of dyshidrotic eczema can be treated with over-the-counter lotions, ointments, and medicines. More severe forms of dyshidrotic eczema may necessitate the use of prescription drugs or other treatments. You can lessen the severity of dyshidrotic eczema by following a regular skin care program.