Dyshidrotic Eczema Treatment

Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of eczema and a condition of the skin that is characterized by tiny itchy blisters on the palms, fingers and sometimes even under the feet. It is a kind of acute dermatosis, that is recurrent in nature and can lead to various complications if not treated appropriately on time. The cause of dyshidrotic is still unknown and it is seen to aggravate during certain months with a change in the weather. Winters could be a bit more problematic for people with dyshidrotic eczema. The onset of this skin condition is sudden and it can occur in people of all ages. Thankfully, there are a number of methods available, but again, it needs to be cured completely or else it can occur over and over again.

Symptoms

• Tiny fluid filled, itchy and painful blisters
• Severe dryness of the palms and fingers
• Cracked and dry skin after the blisters have burst
• Skin thickening, inflammation and redness
• Severe itching of the skin
• Nail infection and fingernail problems

Triggers and Diagnosis
Although there is no particular cause for this condition, there are several triggers that can make the blisters appear. Excessive sweating, allergic reaction to certain products and chemicals, digestive system disorders and certain fabrics can be considered as triggers of this condition. It can be diagnosed by a dermatologist after conducting a few skin tests.

Treatment
There are a number treatments available to cure dyshidrotic eczema. Some people may find that methods initially used as treatment for dyshidrotic eczema, do not work for them later. To avoid situations like this, you should try to prevent the condition once the course of treatment has been completed.

Medication
Oral medications include the consumption of antihistamines, to reduce severe itching and inflammation. Topical medication includes the application of steroid topical creams and ointments that contain cortisone or zinc oxide. In case of a secondary bacterial infection, antibiotics should be taken under the advice of a dermatologist. Oral anti-pruritics like Benadryl may help reduce the severe itching.

Homeopathy
Application of the topical creams given by homeopathy, like urtica urens and calendula and consumption of oral medications, like Nat Mur, arsenicum, graphites, sulfur and petroleum are effective in this type of eczema treatment.

PUVA Therapy
The PUVA therapy is a special type of UV treatment that involves soaking the affected areas in psoralen solution and then exposing it to long waves of UV light. This needs to be done frequently, sometimes even 4 to 5 times in a week and needs to be continued for many months.

Natural Remedies
The following are some of the natural remedies for syshidrotic aczema.

• Soaking the area affected in soaks made of potassium permanganate, sea salt or white vinegar can help relieve the itching, scaling and dryness associated with dyshidrotic eczema. Soak your palms, fingers or feet for around 40 minutes, twice a day.
• Use a mild moisturizer to moisturize your hands and feet regularly.
• Use aloe vera gel to clean your hands, instead of soaps.
• Use oatmeal or sea salt to bathe instead of soap.
• To smoothen and soften out skin, apply flaxseed oil or coconut oil to the area affected.
• Sun bathing or exposing the affected area to UV rays for a short time can also help cure this skin condition.
• Use a cold compress to relieve the irritation and burning.

Recurrence Prevention Tips

• Avoid scratching the affected area and bursting the blisters.
• Always keep your feet and palm clean and dry. Use cool water to do so and do not bathe in hot water. Instead, use lukewarm water for bathing.
• Do not expose the affected area to harsh chemicals, soaps and fabrics that can trigger the condition.
• Use hand gloves while dealing with water, dust and cleaning agents.
• Follow a healthy diet and avoid eating processed foods.
• Avoid the consumption of caffeine and follow a nickel-free diet.
• Do not rub your skin, instead pad dry it gently with a soft cloth or towel.
• Clean the jewelry that you wear on your fingers regularly and let your skin be free of it for a day or two.

Dyshidrotic eczema needs a lot of skin care and appropriate treatment to be cured and to assure that the skin disorder does not occur.