Dyshidrotic eczema (also referred to as Dyshidrosis, Pompholyx) is a condition in which small blisters develop on the hands and feet. The blisters are often itchy.
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a long-lasting (chronic) skin condition that includes scaly and itchy rashes.
Causes of Blisters, Itchy Bumps on Hands, Feet, Fingers and Other Parts of a Body
The cause of watery blisters form eczema is unidentified. The condition seems to appear during certain times of the year.
You are most likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema when:
- You are under stress
- You have allergies, such as hay fever
- Your hands are often in water or moist
- You deal with cement or do other work that exposes your hands to chromium, cobalt, or nickel
The exact cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown. Experts believe that the condition may be related to seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, so blisters may erupt more frequently during the spring allergy season.
Dyshidrotic Eczema Symptoms
Small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles appear on the fingers, hands, and feet. They are most typical along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms, and soles. These blisters can be extremely itchy. They also cause flaky spots of skin that flake or get red, cracked, and painful.
Scratching leads to skin modifications and skin thickening. Large blisters might cause pain or can get infected.
Dyshidrotic Eczema Diagnosis
Your doctor might be able to detect this condition by looking at your skin.
A skin biopsy may be had to eliminate other causes, such as a fungal infection or psoriasis.
If your doctor thinks the condition might be due to an allergic reaction, allergy screening (spot testing) may be done.
Treatment for Itchy Blisters on Hands, Feet, Fingers and Other Parts of a Body
Skin Care at Home
Keep the skin moist by lubricating or hydrating the skin. Use lotions (such as petroleum jelly), creams, or lotions.
Moisturizers:
- Should be complimentary of alcohol, aromas, dyes, fragrances, or other chemicals.
- Work best when they’re used to skin that is wet or damp. After cleaning or bathing, pat the skin dry and then apply the moisturizer immediately.
- Might be used at different times of the day. For the many part, you can use these substances as typically as you have to keep your skin soft.
Best Medications for Blisters on Hands and Feet
Medicines that help relieve itching can be purchased without a prescription.
- Take an anti-itch medication before bed if you scratch in your sleep.
- Some antihistamines cause little or no drowsiness. These include fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin, Alavert), cetirizine (Zyrtec).
- Others can make you drowsy, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
Your doctor may recommend topical medications. These are ointments or creams that are used to the skin. Types consist of:
- Corticosteroids, which calm swollen or swollen skin.
Immunomodulators, which assist keep the body immune system from reacting too strongly.
Follow directions on how to use these medications. Do not use more than you’re supposed to use.
If symptoms are severe, you might require other treatments, such as:
- Corticosteroid pills.
- Corticosteroid shots.
- Coal tar preparations.
- Phototherapy (ultraviolet light therapy).
Outlook (Prognosis)
Dyshidrotic eczema typically disappears without problems, however symptoms might return. Excess scratching might lead to thick, inflamed skin. This makes the issue harder to treat.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have:
- Signs of infection such as tenderness, redness, heat, or fever.
- A rash that does not disappear with basic home treatments.
