Dyshidrotic Eczema
There are so many types of Eczema that it can be difficult to classify every type and to understand the treatment options. Dyshidrotic Eczema is a type of eczema that occurs on the palms of the hand and the soles of the feet. There are other ecemas and skin conditions that occur in these areas so sometimes it is hard to know if you have Dyshidrotic Eczema and not just another type of foot fungus.
One way to know what is Dyshidrotic Eczema is to look carefully at the soles of your feet and the palms of your hand. Dyshidrotic Eczema appears on your skin as small fluid-filled blisters. They cause extreme itching and can be painful. Usually they last around three weeks. After the blisters dry out they can form painful and cracking lesions.
When skin becomes inflamed with Dyshidrotic Eczema, the cells separate just a little and allow fluid to seep in. The skin takes on a sponge like quality and that is when you will start to notice the blisters forming.
Because skin serves as the protective barrier between your internal organs and the outside world you should always take caution to avoid rupturing the blisters and creating an environment where infection will thrive.
Symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczema
If you suffer from Dyshidrotic Eczema, you are probably well aware of the unpleasant symptoms. It starts as a rash with small, red, itchy bumps. Eventually the fluid filled blisters form and then dry out to form painful and cracked lesions. The larger the blister is, usually the more itching and pain is associated with it.
Even though it is very tempting to scratch the blisters, don’t do it! When you scratch them you provide a way to spread the infection. You also cause changes within the skin that make the skin thicker and can even make it more painful. It can also make Dyshidrotic Eczema more difficult to treat and it can take longer to heal than when you leave the blisters alone.
Causes of Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic Eczema is more common in women than it is in men although the reason for that is unknown. It is also unknown why Dyshidrotic Eczema occurs in the first place which can sometimes make treatment more difficult. However, it has been noticed more at certain times of the year than others.
Sometimes Dyshidrotic Eczema is causes by an allergic reaction. If this is the case future outbreaks can be prevented by removing the allergen. In people with allergies they may notice that the outbreaks occur during allergy season but they are pain and symptom free the rest of the year.
A lot of skin conditions are caused or exacerbated by stress. Dyshidrotic Eczema is no exception. If you know that you suffer from Dyshidrotic Eczema outbreaks, tell your husband you need an afternoon off from the kids or ask your wife for a stress-relieving back massage. This can be an excellent excuse to work a few minutes into your day just to concentrate on relaxing and relieving stress.
There may be occupational hazards associated with Dyshidrotic Eczema. Working with mechanics or cement can expose you to metals such as chromium, cobalt, and nickel which can lead to an increase in outbreaks.
Another occupational hazard may be in an environment where you are frequently exposed to water or other wet substances. If you are in the military and walking a lot through damp forests or if you are a swim teacher and spend a lot of time in the water you may want to be careful not to exacerbate your condition.
Take a few minutes to look for an effective eczema treatment. Everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another. Becoming educated about Dyshidrotic Eczema can help you to prevent future outbreaks by knowing what to avoid and what to expect.
Treatment of Dyshidrotic Eczema
There are several ways to treat Dyshidrotic Eczema. One is a list of dont’s and one is a list of do’s. If you follow the advice from both lists you will notice an improvement in your skin.
Don’ts
- Take long baths or frequently wash your hands
- Use irritating substances
- Scratch the rash
Dos
- Follow any advice from your doctor
- Moisturize with a non-irritating lotion
- Use compresses to relieve the itching
- Try antihistamines, strong steroid creams, or ointments
If none of these treatments work you doctor may advise you to use UV therapy to decrease the appearance of the sores and to help them heal. But too much exposure to UV rays can make Dyshidrotic Eczema worse so always follow the advice of your doctor.
Dyshidrotic Eczema can be frustrating to deal with. But it is certainly manageable even if it can’t be cured. Look for some creams that might be effective and try a few products until you find the right eczema treatment.
