What is Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is a well-known skin disease also called dyshidrosis, vesicular eczema, pompholyx, palmoplantar eczema, or foot-and-hand eczema. It is a chronic skin condition. It will cause itching and a burning sensation. In severe cases, it may generate a blistering rash that affects the palms, sides of the fingers and soles of the feet. It can occur at any age.

Dyshidrosis can cause mild to extreme symptoms. Sometimes these symptoms will be cured on their own or just by some home remedies within a few weeks, but sometimes they remain for months or years. These blisters come and go with time and can be managed by medicine, skin moisturizers, and good care. 

Who will be affected by Dyshidrotic eczema?

Anyone can be affected by dyshidrosis. Yet, it most commonly occurs in these people:

• The woman at birth has a greater chance to develop and may be more likely to develop Dyshidrosis due to frequently interacting with particular antigens.
• Adults between 20 and 40 age.
• Who has a personal or family history of eczema?
• A person who develops allergic reactions when they touch an antigen. About 50% of dyshidrotic eczema cases occur due to this.

Dyshidrosis Causes and Risk Factors

It is still unknown how to identify the cause of Dyshidrosis, but several factors may increase the risk of developing it. These include:

• Personal or family history of eczema or contact dermatitis.
• The previous record of atopic dermatitis.
• Smoking.
• Having allergies, including allergic rhinitis
• Immunoglobulin infusions for immune deficiency.
• Stress.
• Very warm or cold weather
• Dry or humid air

Which things trigger Dyshidrosis?

While the precise triggers for dyshidrotic eczema vary from person to person, certain factors can contribute to flare-ups. These include:

• During dyshidrosis, a minor exposure to some irritants or allergens will inflame your skin.
• Having allergies to certain antigens, such as cobalt and nickel in jewellery.

What are the symptoms of Dyshidrosis?

Dyshidrotic eczema will affect more hands than feet. They can happen in episodes lasting weeks, months, or years. They will be recognised by symptoms, including:

• Cracks found in the skin

• Hard and reddened skin

• Changes in the colour of nails.

• Peeling and scalping of the skin

• Burning or Itching

• Blisters found on the edges of toes, fingers, palms, and soles of feet

• Sweaty skin around the blister.

Sometimes blisters can be severe and affect your feet, making it hard to walk. Savere Blisters can have an infection and cause severe pain, swelling, crusting, and pus.

How to Diagnose Dyshidrosis 

 To diagnose dyshidrotic eczema, a doctor or dermatologist will review your medical history, signs, and likely exposure to irritants. Physical examinations and tests may be conducted, including skin scrapings or biopsies, patch skin testing, and blood tests to rule out other conditions.

What are Dyshidrosis Treatments

While there is no cure for dyshidrotic eczema, various treatments can help manage the symptoms. Common treatment options include:

• Use moisturizing lotion or cream to treat dry skin.

• Use steroid ointments to reduce inflammation.

• Use Calcineurin creams to reduce inflammation.

• Take corticosteroids by mouth for severe symptoms.

• Use the drainage of very large blisters to reduce pain.

• PUVA (psoralen and ultraviolet light) therapy for chronic, severe symptoms.

• Targeted injectable biologic medicines, such as dupilumab, which have shown promise in treating eczema, can also be used to treat dyshidrotic eczema.

Home Remedies

In addition to medical treatments, individuals can incorporate certain practices into their daily routine to manage dyshidrotic eczema:

• Use warm water instead of hot water to wash your hands
• Soak your hands and feet in cool water to reduce symptoms.
• Use cool compresses soaked in cool water to reduce itching and irritation.
• Moisten the skin frequently.
• Thoroughly dry your feet and hands after bathing.
• Avoid wearing socks, gloves, or shoes whenever possible. If required, choose materials that repel or soak moisture, such as cotton or wool.

Complications

Dyshidrotic eczema can lead to complications, such as bacterial infections, if left untreated or improperly handled. Antibiotic medication may be prescribed in the case of an infection.