This article explains Dyshidrotic Eczema and its symptoms. Home treatment and prevention tips are offered.
This form of eczema is not contagious but should be treated with care.The blisters can be rooted deep in the skin.If the blisters are scratched a secondary infection can occur.Scratching can also cause the skin to thicken.In severe cases the skin will turn red and the blisters may crust over.Some pain can be expected in severe outbreaks.Deep painful cracks can occur in the skin in chronic cases.Scaling, redness, and pain are also common.
If you exhibit symptoms of this condition you may want to visit your physician for a checkup.In most cases your doctor can diagnose this condition just by looking at the skin.However in some cases your doctor may do a skin biopsy or draw blood to determine if there are any other reasons for the condition.You may be asked about your family history and any other occurrences of this condition you may have had.If your skin becomes tender and sore, turns red, or you develop a fever, contact your physician at once.You may have an infection that needs to be taken care of immediately.
There are some things you can do at home to alleviate some of the bothersome symptoms.The most important is to avoid itching the skin.Hands and feet can be put into a salt-water soak.This may help dry up some of the blisters.Moisturizer should be applied often to soften the skin.Over-the-counter antihistamines can be taken to alleviate the symptoms also.In some cases a topical steroid cream can be applied.However you should discuss this with your doctor first, as steroids can have harmful side effects if used improperly or for too many days in a row.Topical steroids can thin your skin and weaken its ability to defend itself from infections and bacteria.In the case of infection setting in, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic.Be sure to take the entire prescription.
There are also some things you can do every day to avoid flare-ups.Whenever your hands or feet come into contact with water, be sure to apply moisturizer.Avoid detergents that have strong deodorants and additives.Look for delicate and mild detergents for your laundry.The same rules apply for soaps and body washes.Though it is not always possibly, try to avoid situations involving extreme stress.Do not wear gloves containing latex or rubber.If you must wear these for any reason, wear a cotton glove between your skin and the latex or rubber.Avoid jewelry that contains Nichol, as it may cause a reaction with your skin.Look for jewelry that is labeled "Nichol free".Cotton socks are the best choice for your feet and air feet often.
