Overview
Dyshidrosis is a skin condition characterized by the development of small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the palms of the hands and sides of the fingers or the bottoms of the feet. The blisters can be painful and often last for a few weeks before drying and flaking off. The condition tends to recur frequently over months or years. Dyshidrosis is also known as dyshidrotic eczema or pompholyx, and its causes are not fully understood. However, it has been linked to factors such as stress, exposure to certain metals, and sensitive skin. While there is no cure for dyshidrosis, treatments like prescription steroid skin creams or ointments can help manage symptoms. If you experience a rash on your hands or feet that is severe, persistent, or spreading, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of dyshidrosis include painful, itchy, and fluid-filled blisters on the sides of fingers, the palms of hands, and the bottoms of feet. The blisters are small and grouped in clusters, often resembling tapioca. In severe cases, the blisters may merge to form larger blisters. The affected skin is typically painful and very itchy. After a few weeks, the blisters dry and flake off. Dyshidrosis tends to recur regularly for months or years.
Development
Dyshidrosis is a skin condition characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters on the palms of the hands and sides of the fingers, as well as the bottoms of the feet. The cause of dyshidrosis is not known, but it tends to occur in people with a skin condition called atopic dermatitis and allergic conditions like hay fever or glove allergy. Dyshidrosis can develop due to stress, exposure to certain metals, and sensitive skin. The itchy blisters last for a few weeks and often recur. Treatment typically includes prescription steroid skin creams or ointments, and in some cases, light therapy or medications taken by mouth or injection.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you have a rash on your hands or feet that's severe, doesn't go away, or spreads beyond the hands and feet.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of dyshidrosis include:
- Bacterial infections: Intense scratching can increase the risk of bacterial infection in the affected skin.
- Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: After healing, you may notice skin color changes in the affected area, which is more likely to occur in people with brown or Black skin. This complication usually goes away in time without treatment.
- Impaired hand or foot function: For some people, the pain and itching from dyshidrosis may limit the use of their hands or feet. It's important to follow proper treatment and management strategies to minimize the risk of complications.
Treatment
Treatment for dyshidrosis most often includes prescription steroid skin creams or ointments. Your doctor or other health care provider may suggest a different treatment, such as light therapy or medicine taken by mouth or injection. The right treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are.