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Dyshidrotic eczema, also called dyshidrosis or palmoplantar eczema, is a type of skin condition that is manifested by small blisters filled with fluid on the palms of the hands, fingers and soles of the feet. These blisters often cause incredible itching and can lead to desquamation, cracks and other complications. For people who suffer from this condition, flare-ups can not only be physically uncomfortable, but also affect everyday tasks such as walking or using their hands.
Understanding symptoms, triggers and treatment options is essential for effectively managing this disease. This article will explore different aspects of dyshidrotic eczema, including its potential causes, risk factors, treatments and prevention strategies.
What are the causes of dyshydrotic eczema?
The exact cause of dyshydrotic eczema remains unknown, but some factors could trigger flare-ups. This may include:
Sweating: One of the most common triggers, even if experts don’t know exactly why. Excessive sweating can irritate the skin and cause flare-ups.
Metal allergy: Hypersensitivity to metals such as nickel and cobalt is often a contributing factor. People who work with these materials or who are exposed to them in everyday life may experience more intense symptoms.
Personal care products: Some ingredients in soaps, moisturizers or shampoos may irritate the skin, causing or aggravating dyshidrotic eczema.
Medicines: Certain medicines, including the contraceptive pill or aspirin, may contribute to the outbreaks.
Smoking: Smoking exposure, whether smoke or second-hand smoke, is linked to an increase in the symptoms of eczema.
Stress: Emotional stress is another major trigger. People who experience high levels of stress may experience an increase in the frequency or severity of outbreaks of dyshydrotic eczema.
Climate change: Temperature changes, especially in hot and humid weather, can worsen symptoms.
Although these are some of the most common triggers, dyshidrotic eczema can vary from person to person, and understanding of individual triggers is essential for managing the disease.
Who is at risk of developing dyshydrootic eczema?
Several factors may increase the likelihood that a person will develop dyshidrotic eczema. Some of the most important risk factors include:
Genetic: A family history of eczema or other skin conditions may increase the risk.
History of allergies: People with allergies, such as hay fever, or those with allergic diseases such as asthma or allergic sinusitis, are more likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema.
Occupational exposure: People who work with metals, cement or other skin-irritating substances are at higher risk. Constant contact with these materials may result in symptoms.
Age group: Dyshydrootic eczema is more common in adults aged 20 to 40 years, although it can develop at any age.
Pre-existing skin infections: Affections such as athlete’s foot may predispose individuals to develop dyshidrotic eczema, especially on the soles of the feet.
Early identification of these risk factors can help individuals better manage the onset and recurrence of eczema flare-ups.
Symptoms of dyshydroic eczema
Symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema may vary in intensity and appearance, but the characteristic sign of this condition is the formation of tiny blisters that itch on the palms, fingers or soles of the feet. Here is a more detailed overview of the main symptoms:
Itchy characters: they usually start with small bumps that can turn into larger plates. Itching may be intense and persistent.
Burning sensation: The first warning signs of a flare-up of eczema include a burning or tingling sensation, even before visible blisters appear.
Desquamation and cracks: As the ampoules heal, the skin can become dry, scaly and cracked.
Pain: If the skin is infected, blisters may bleed from pus, ignite and cause pain.
Appearance similar to that of tapioca: tiny blisters are often described as pudding-like tapioca, giving the skin a distinctive bumpy texture.
The blisters usually heal on their own within 2 to 4 weeks, but the area may remain dry and scaly for some time. People with darker skin may develop dark spots or patches in the affected areas.
Diagnosis of dyshydrootic eczema
If your skin is inflamed or itchy for more than a week, or if you notice a tendency to become recurrent blisters, it is essential to consult a doctor or dermatologist. Here’s what you’re waiting for when you’re diagnosed:
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