Look Young Again!

Home :: Skin Disorders :: Dyshidrotic Eczema

Causes Dyshidrotic Eczema Feet

Dyshidrotic Eczema is a deep itchy blister skin complaint that is found on the palms, hands, fingers, and soles of the feet. Researchers believe it is an inherited allergic reaction since and is not contagious. The disease can stop and then reappear after several years. The blisters may erupt and cause severe pain. Scratching leads to thickening of the skin and can also cause secondary infections. People between the ages of 20 and 40 are most at risk. Women are more prone to suffer from Dyshidrotic Eczema than men.

Symptoms

The symptoms may vary but the most common signs of Dyshidrotic Eczema are:

1. Cracks and gaps in the skin
2. Severe sweating
3. Pain and blistering at the site of the rash
4. Intense burning and itching
5. Small but deep rooted blisters
6. Oozing of the blisters
7. Crusting skin cuts
8. Dry leathery skin areas
9. The nails may show signs of disfiguring when the area around it is involved.

Causes

Scientists believe that the inherited allergic reaction is caused by sensitivity to cobalt, nickel and balsam. Certain factors may trigger or worsen the condition such as:

1. Costume jewelry that often contains nickel
2. Fungal infections elsewhere in the body can trigger Dyshidrotic Eczema in the hands.
3. Cigarette smoke
4. Aspirin

Metal implants

1. Certain oral contraceptives
2. Bacterial infection
3. Humidity
4. Extreme heat or cold
5. Stress and anxiety
6. Immunoglobulin therapy
7. Family history of asthma, hay fever, and sinusitis
8. Season changes
9. Certain disinfectants and detergents
10. Animal saliva
11. Nickel parts in clothing such as the bra strap hooks
12. Wool and synthetic fibers

Prevention of outbreaks

Even though there is no permanent cure for the disease, you can take action to prevent or minimize the effects by avoiding the above substances and situations that can trigger flare-ups where possible and by:

Diagnosis

The disease is diagnosed through physical examination and a review of the family history. The doctor may perform blood tests to check for alternative causes of the rash.

Treatment for Dyshidrotic Eczema

Outbreaks of the condition is treated by keeping the skin dry and draining the blisters. Additional treatments may be needed such as:

Side effects of these treatments

Long-term steroid use can cause severe damage to the body such as thinning of the skin. Antibiotics may cause upset stomachs, rashes, and allergic reactions and attack the natural microorganisms in the body.

Natural alternatives to prescription drugs

The risk of outbreaks are reduced when you follow a diet low in nickel and cobalt. Avoid canned foods, chocolate, baking powder, cocoa, and tea. They al contain nickel. Don’t use nickel-plated cooking utensils to prepare food. In addition take Vitamin C supplements since it is needed to boost the immune system and help fight infections. Drink two to three cups of rose hip tea daily. It is rich in flavonoids that help reduce swelling and allergic reactions. Herbs that help your skin heal and increase lymphatic drainage include: cleavers; burdock root; yellow dock; yarrow; cleavers; nettles, and red clover. You can use a combination of these herbs in tinctures or teas. Herbal skin creams that include chickweed, chamomile, marigold and comfrey, help to reduce itching and burning. Homeopaths may prescribe calendula as a soothing cream or urtica urens to be applied to severe rashes. You should try to prevent outbreaks of Dyshidrotic Eczema by following the guidelines until a permanent cure is found for this skin disorder.