What causes dyshidrotic eczema. How to identify summer finger bumps. What are the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema. How to treat dyshidrotic eczema at home. When to see a doctor for dyshidrotic eczema. What are the risk factors for developing dyshidrotic eczema. How does diet impact dyshidrotic eczema.

What is Dyshidrotic Eczema and Why Does It Occur?

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx eczema, is a skin condition characterized by small, itchy blisters that typically appear on the hands and feet. These blisters, sometimes referred to as “summer finger bumps,” can be uncomfortable and may cause a burning or prickling sensation in the affected areas.

The exact cause of dyshidrotic eczema remains unknown, but several factors may trigger flare-ups:

• Stress
• Metal allergies or sensitivities (particularly nickel)
• Seasonal allergies
• Excessive sweating
• Hot and humid weather

Is dyshidrotic eczema a chronic condition? In many cases, yes. While some individuals may experience only one episode, the condition often recurs, with flare-ups occurring anywhere from once a month to once a year.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczema

Identifying dyshidrotic eczema early can help manage the condition more effectively. The primary symptoms include:

• Intense itching
• Burning or heat sensation in palms or soles
• Prickling feeling in the skin
• Sudden appearance of small, water-filled blisters
• Pain and cracking of the skin
• Swelling around the nails

How can you distinguish dyshidrotic eczema from other skin conditions? The key is in the location and appearance of the blisters. These tiny, deep-seated blisters typically appear on the sides of fingers, palms, toes, and soles. They often resemble tapioca pudding and do not occur elsewhere on the body.

Risk Factors and Prevalence of Dyshidrotic Eczema

Understanding who is most at risk for developing dyshidrotic eczema can help in early detection and management. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, several factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

• Age: More common in people under 40
• Gender: Females are more frequently affected
• Family history of eczema
• Presence of other types of eczema
• Seasonal allergies or asthma
• Frequent hand or foot sweating
• Occupations involving metal work or cement handling

How prevalent is dyshidrotic eczema? While exact figures are not available, the National Eczema Society reports that approximately half of those with dyshidrotic eczema also have atopic eczema or a family history of the condition.

Diagnosing Dyshidrotic Eczema: When to See a Doctor

If you suspect you have dyshidrotic eczema, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. A dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How do doctors diagnose dyshidrotic eczema? The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Physical examination of the skin
2. Review of medical and family history
3. Possible allergy testing to identify specific triggers

Why is professional diagnosis important? While the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema are distinct, they can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions. A dermatologist can rule out other possibilities and ensure you receive the most effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Dyshidrotic Eczema

Although there is no cure for dyshidrotic eczema, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. These may include:

• Medical moisturizers
• Wet soaking with potassium permanganate
• Topical steroids
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus ointment)
• Oral antibiotics (if bacterial infection is present)
• Oral immunosuppressant drugs
• Botox injections
• Phototherapy

How effective are these treatments? The efficacy can vary from person to person. Your dermatologist will work with you to find the most suitable treatment plan based on the severity of your condition and individual factors.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for Dyshidrotic Eczema

In addition to medical treatments, several at-home strategies can help manage dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups and provide relief:

• Use lukewarm water for washing (avoid very hot or cold water)
• Choose emollient soaps or cleansers instead of regular soap
• Avoid direct contact with skin-irritating products
• Take antihistamines with sedative effects to aid sleep
• Drain large, painful blisters with a sterile needle (under medical guidance)
• Apply creams or ointments and bandage affected areas

Can stress management help prevent flare-ups? Yes, managing stress levels can be beneficial in preventing dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity may help reduce stress and potentially decrease the frequency of outbreaks.

The Role of Diet in Managing Dyshidrotic Eczema

While research is ongoing, some evidence suggests that dietary factors may influence dyshidrotic eczema in certain individuals. Understanding these potential connections can help in managing the condition more effectively.

How might diet impact dyshidrotic eczema? For some people, specific foods may trigger or exacerbate symptoms. This is particularly relevant for those with a nickel allergy, as nickel sensitivity has been linked to dyshidrotic eczema in some cases.

Foods high in nickel that some individuals might consider avoiding include:

• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds
• Chocolate
• Canned foods
• Certain fish (e.g., salmon, tuna)

Is eliminating these foods necessary for everyone with dyshidrotic eczema? Not necessarily. The impact of diet on dyshidrotic eczema can vary greatly from person to person. It’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet.

Identifying Dietary Triggers

To determine if certain foods are triggering your dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups, consider keeping a food diary. Record what you eat and any symptoms you experience. Over time, this can help you identify patterns and potential trigger foods.

What should you do if you suspect a food trigger? If you notice a consistent connection between certain foods and your symptoms, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an elimination diet or further testing to confirm the association.

Living with Dyshidrotic Eczema: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Managing dyshidrotic eczema often requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond medical treatments. Implementing certain lifestyle changes and coping strategies can significantly improve quality of life for those living with this condition.

Protecting Your Hands and Feet

Since dyshidrotic eczema primarily affects the hands and feet, taking extra care of these areas is crucial. Consider the following strategies:

• Wear cotton-lined gloves when doing wet work or using cleaning products
• Choose breathable, moisture-wicking socks and shoes
• Avoid prolonged exposure to water
• Use a humidifier in dry environments to prevent skin from drying out

How can you maintain hand hygiene without exacerbating symptoms? Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic hand sanitizers instead of frequent hand washing when possible. When you do wash your hands, use lukewarm water and a gentle, moisturizing soap.

Managing Flare-Ups at Work

For many people, managing dyshidrotic eczema in the workplace can be challenging. Here are some tips to help:

• Inform your employer about your condition and any necessary accommodations
• Keep your prescribed treatments at your workspace for quick access
• Use a portable fan to keep your hands cool and dry
• Take short breaks to apply moisturizer or other treatments as needed

What if your job involves frequent hand washing or exposure to irritants? Consider discussing potential role modifications with your employer or exploring protective measures like specialized gloves or barrier creams.

Emotional Well-being and Support

Living with a chronic skin condition can take an emotional toll. It’s important to address the psychological aspects of dyshidrotic eczema as well as the physical symptoms.

How can you maintain emotional well-being while managing dyshidrotic eczema?

• Join support groups or online communities for people with eczema
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga
• Seek counseling or therapy if you’re struggling with the emotional impact of the condition
• Educate friends and family about your condition to foster understanding and support

Remember, it’s normal to feel frustrated or discouraged at times. Reaching out for support when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Dyshidrotic Eczema

While current treatments can effectively manage dyshidrotic eczema for many people, ongoing research continues to explore new therapeutic options and deepen our understanding of the condition.

Biologic Therapies

Biologic drugs, which target specific components of the immune system, have shown promise in treating various forms of eczema. Some of these medications are being studied for their potential in managing dyshidrotic eczema.

How do biologic therapies work? These drugs typically target specific proteins or cells involved in the inflammatory response. By modulating the immune system, they may help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Microbiome Research

Growing evidence suggests that the skin microbiome – the community of microorganisms living on our skin – plays a role in various skin conditions, including eczema. Researchers are exploring how alterations in the skin microbiome might contribute to dyshidrotic eczema and whether modulating the microbiome could offer new treatment avenues.

Could probiotics help manage dyshidrotic eczema? While more research is needed, some studies suggest that certain probiotics might help improve eczema symptoms. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Personalized Medicine Approaches

As our understanding of the genetic and environmental factors influencing dyshidrotic eczema grows, researchers are exploring more personalized treatment approaches. This could involve tailoring treatments based on an individual’s specific genetic profile or identified triggers.

What might personalized medicine look like for dyshidrotic eczema? It could involve genetic testing to predict which treatments are likely to be most effective for a particular individual, or the development of targeted therapies based on specific molecular pathways involved in the condition.

While these areas of research offer exciting possibilities for the future, it’s important to remember that developing new treatments takes time. In the meantime, working closely with your healthcare provider to optimize your current treatment plan remains the best approach for managing dyshidrotic eczema.

What to know about summer finger bumps

Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of eczema that produces skin blisters on the feet and hands. These small blisters are sometimes known as “summer finger bumps.”

Doctors may also refer to dyshidrotic eczema as dyshidrosis, pompholyx, foot-and-hand eczema, vesicular eczema, or palmoplantar eczema.

The blisters or bumps that form can be uncomfortable, itchy, and painful. People may feel a burning or prickly sensation in their skin. The blisters are not permanent.

Dyshidrotic eczema involves flare-ups that last several weeks. Although some people may only experience one flare, people usually have repeated flare-ups that may occur from once every month to once every year.

Below, we look at the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options for dyshidrotic eczema, as well as how diet may impact this condition.

Doctors sometimes call dyshidrotic eczema “pompholyx eczema.”

Pompholyx is the word for “bubble” in Ancient Greek. The condition can produce intensely itchy blisters on the skin that can also be painful or have a burning sensation. These blisters are tiny and deep-seated and may have a similar appearance to tapioca pudding.

Water-filled blisters can appear on the sides of the fingers and may extend to the palms of the hands. They can also appear on the toes and soles of the feet.

People with this type of eczema may also have other types of eczema elsewhere on the body.

Dyshidrotic eczema may occur as a one-time episode. However, it often occurs as a chronic condition that involves repeated flare-ups.

Symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema include:

• extreme itching
• burning sensation
• a sensation of heat in the palms or soles
• prickling sensation
• the sudden appearance of small blisters, often on the sides of the fingers
• painful drying and cracking of the skin
• swelling and changes to the skin around the nail

The blisters start small and then may grow bigger. They may weep fluid and produce discoloration. They do not appear in other places on the body.

If a person has small, water-filled blisters elsewhere, it may be another form of eczema or another skin condition.

The bumpy blisters on the sides of the fingers may develop as a result of excessive sweating or heat exposure. This is why people sometimes refer to them as “summer finger bumps.”

There is no definitive known cause for dyshidrotic eczema. However, some factors that may trigger flare-ups include:

• stress
• metal allergies or sensitivities, such as a nickel allergy
• other types of allergies, such as seasonal allergies
• sweating
• hot, humid weather

According to the National Eczema Society, half of those with dyshidrotic eczema also have atopic eczema or a family history of the skin condition.

Dyshidrotic eczema is more common in people under 40 years of age. It is also more common in females.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, other risk factors include:

• having another type of eczema
• having seasonal allergies or asthma
• having an allergy to certain metals
• having feet or hands that frequently sweat or become wet
• having a family history of dyshidrotic eczema
• working with metals
• being a mechanic
• working with cement

A person with symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema should see a doctor or dermatologist for a diagnosis.

The doctor will examine the person’s skin and take a medical and family history to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan.

A doctor may also recommend allergy testing to check for specific triggers that may be exacerbating the eczema.

There is no cure for dyshidrotic eczema. However, there are ways to manage the condition. A doctor may prescribe:

• medical moisturizer
• wet soaking with potassium permanganate to help with oozing blisters
• topical steroids to reduce inflammation
• a topical calcineurin inhibitor such as tacrolimus ointment (Protopic)
• oral antibiotics to combat bacterial infection
• oral immunosuppressant drugs
• Botox injections
• phototherapy

Dealing with a flare-up of dyshidrotic eczema can be difficult. The condition is often very itchy and can be painful and bothersome.

The National Eczema Society suggests some strategies for at-home relief, including:

• washing with lukewarm water because very hot or cold water may irritate the skin
• using an emollient soap or cleanser instead of regular soap
• avoiding direct contact with skin-irritating ingredients or products such as detergents and cleansing agents
• taking antihistamines with a sedative effect that will help with sleep rather than actively treat itchiness
• draining large, painful blisters with a sterile needle
• bandaging or wrapping the skin after applying creams or ointments

Stress management can also help prevent flare-ups.

Dietary triggers may contribute to flare-ups for some people. Avoiding these foods can help prevent symptoms.

As a nickel allergy may have a link to dyshidrotic eczema, it is possible that avoiding foods high in nickel may help prevent flare-ups. These foods include:

• soy products, such as soy sauce and tofu
• licorice
• cocoa powder
• clams
• cashews
• figs

An infection may develop as the blisters grow larger and the condition compromises the skin barrier.

Some people may also have fungal infections at the same time as they experience dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups.

If a person with dyshidrotic eczema develops a skin infection, they should see a doctor for evaluation so they can receive treatment.

Some symptoms of a skin infection include:

• discoloration
• swelling
• oozing pus
• pain
• warmth

Preventing flares involves avoiding known triggers such as allergens or temperature changes. Other strategies for preventing dyshidrotic eczema and its symptoms include:

• applying moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking
• wearing gloves, socks, or tights made with cotton, silk, or bamboo to allow the skin to breathe
• removing rings before washing the hands, applying moisturizer, or sleeping to avoid skin irritation

It can be challenging to live with dyshidrotic eczema because it affects the hands and feet.

Some people with the condition may not be able to work during flare-ups. They may also have trouble walking if they develop painful blisters on their feet.

However, it is possible to manage this type of eczema. People with dyshidrotic eczema should talk with a doctor to find an appropriate treatment option.

Dyshidrotic eczema can cause small fluid-filled bumps or blisters to appear on the feet or hands.

Various factors can trigger a flare-up of dyshidrotic eczema. These may include dietary and environmental allergens, stress, weather conditions, and sweat.

A doctor can help people with dyshidrotic eczema find an appropriate treatment option.

A combination of treatment and prevention strategies can help a person manage the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema.

Read this article in Spanish.

Heat rash (prickly heat) – NHS

Heat rash is uncomfortable, but usually harmless. It usually gets better on its own after a few days.

Check if you have heat rash

The symptoms of heat rash are:

• small, raised spots
• an itchy, prickly feeling
• mild swelling

The rash often looks red, but this may be less obvious on brown or black skin.

The symptoms of heat rash are often the same in adults and children.

It can appear anywhere on the body and spread, but it cannot be passed on to other people.

Heat rash appears as raised spots that are 2mm to 4mm across. Some spots may be filled with fluid.

Credit:

CID – ISM / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/1036411/view

If you’re not sure if your child has heat rash

Look at other rashes in children.

How you can treat or prevent heat rash yourself

The main thing to do is keep your skin cool so you do not sweat and irritate the rash.

To keep your skin cool

• wear loose cotton clothing
• use lightweight bedding
• take cool baths or showers
• drink plenty of fluid to avoid dehydration

To calm the itching or prickly feeling

• apply something cold, such as a damp cloth or ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel) for up to 20 minutes
• tap or pat the rash instead of scratching it
• do not use perfumed shower gels or creams

A pharmacist can help with heat rash

Speak to a pharmacist about heat rash. They can give advice and suggest the best treatment to use.

A pharmacist might recommend:

• calamine lotion
• antihistamine tablets
• hydrocortisone cream – though not for children under 10 or pregnant women as they need to get advice from a doctor before using this treatment

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• the rash does not improve after a few days
• your baby has a rash and you’re worried

Causes of heat rash

Heat rash is usually caused by excessive sweating.

Sweat glands get blocked and the trapped sweat leads to a rash developing a few days later.

Babies often get heat rash because they cannot control their temperature as well as adults and children can.

Page last reviewed: 15 February 2021
Next review due: 15 February 2024

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