Dyshidrosis – Symptoms and Causes
Dyshidrosis is a skin condition characterized by small blisters filled with fluid. These blisters appear mainly on the palms and sides of fingers. In some cases, these blisters may also develop on the soles of the feet.
Dyshidrotic eczema, or pompholyx, leads to itchy blisters that can last for weeks and often come back. Most commonly, healthcare providers prescribe steroid creams or ointments for application to affected areas.
For more severe cases, treatment might include light therapy or medications taken orally or by injection. The appropriate treatment plan depends on how the condition affects each person.
Signs and Symptoms
Dyshidrosis produces small, fluid-filled blisters about the size of a pencil tip. These painful, itchy blisters typically appear in clusters on the sides of fingers, palms, and soles. They often resemble tapioca pudding when grouped together.
In more serious cases, these tiny blisters may join to create larger ones. The affected skin can become very painful and intensely itchy. The blisters typically dry out and peel away after several weeks.
This condition often follows a pattern of recurring episodes that can continue for months or years.
When Medical Help Is Needed
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop a hand or foot rash that is particularly severe.
Also, seek medical help if the rash persists despite home treatment or spreads beyond your hands and feet. These signs may indicate a need for professional medical evaluation and treatment.
Causes
The exact cause of dyshidrosis remains unknown. However, people with atopic dermatitis (eczema) tend to develop this condition more frequently.
Those with allergic conditions like hay fever or allergies to gloves may also experience dyshidrosis more often. It’s important to note that dyshidrosis is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person through contact.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the chance of developing dyshidrosis:
- Stress – Both emotional and physical stress can trigger outbreaks.
- Metal exposure – Contact with cobalt or nickel, especially in workplace settings.
- Skin sensitivity – People who react to skin irritants face a higher risk.
- Existing skin conditions – Those with atopic dermatitis may be more likely to. develop dyshidrosis.
These factors don’t necessarily cause the condition but may play a role in its development or make flare-ups more frequent.
Complications
Most people find dyshidrosis merely annoying and itchy. However, some individuals experience pain and itching severe enough to limit hand or foot function.
Scratching intensely can lead to bacterial skin infections in the affected areas. After dyshidrosis heals, you might notice skin color changes where the condition occurred. This is known as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
People with darker skin tones are more likely to experience this change. Fortunately, these color changes typically fade over time without requiring treatment.
Prevention Measures
While there’s no way to fully prevent dyshidrosis, you can take steps to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
Managing Triggers
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
- Avoid exposure to metal salts (cobalt and nickel)
Daily Skin Care Routine
- Wash hands with mild, non-soap cleansers and lukewarm water
- Dry hands thoroughly after washing
- Apply moisturizer at least twice daily
Protective Measures
- Wear cotton gloves to protect sensitive skin
- For wet activities, try cotton gloves underneath waterproof gloves
- If gloves cause irritation, inform your healthcare provider about a possible sensitivity
