Dyshidrosis, or Dyshidrosis Eczema, is a chronic skin disease. It is a very common type of eczema (allergy) that affects the palms, fingers and soles of the feet. Its main feature is small bubbles one to two millimeters wide and reddish in base. But in more severe cases, it may develop into cracks and fissures. In these situations, more care must be taken as the site is vulnerable to bacterial infections.
There is controversy as to whether the disease usually has a higher incidence in women or if it affects both sexes equally. But what is clear is that the age group most susceptible to the development of the disease is between 20 and 40 years old. The blisters last about three weeks, after which they usually disappear. However, because it is a chronic disease, it reappears after some time. Recurrent seizures may result in thickening of the skin (hyperkeratosis).
According to dermatologist Izabella Maia, the diagnosis of dyshidrosis is clinical: from a detailed clinical history, that is, a description of the development of the disease, it is possible to establish the causes and to know if it is really dyshidrosis. The dermatologist also explains that some tests may be ordered, such as direct mycological examination, in case of suspected fungal infection; patch testing in cases related to contact dermatitis; and biopsy, when it is not possible to identify the causative agent.
The dermatologist also states that dyshidrosis can be confused with atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, primary irritant contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, among other dermatological diseases, being possible to distinguish from a skin examination.
Dyshidrosis has no cure, but it can be controlled in many ways. The following are the causes, symptoms and treatments for the disease.
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What are the causes of dyshidrosis?
Dyshidrosis is caused by an inflation in the skin that creates small blisters that burst, leaving the skin looking scaly. About half of those affected are prone to develop allergies, with other types of allergic manifestations in their history, such as dermatitis or even bronchitis.
According to Izabella Maia, the causes of dyshidrosis are not completely established. Nevertheless, it can be classified into two types: idiopathic or true dyshidrosis, when it is not possible to identify the origin of the disease; and dyshidrosiform eruptions, when dyshidrosis arises related to another problem, such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, pharmacoderma (allergic reaction to drugs), and dermatophytides (allergic reactions to a fungus).
Other triggers of the disease include physical or mental stress and frequent hand washing. The disease is more frequent during the summer or in sudden changes in temperature, and seems to be related to the overproduction of sweat on the hands and feet, even though the fluid inside the blisters is not sweat.
Importantly, dyshidrosis is not a contagious disease: there is no danger of transmission even if it comes into direct contact with someone else's skin.
What are the symptoms of dyshidrosis?
In attacks of dyshidrosis, the skin becomes inflamed. This causes the spaces created by inflammation between skin cells to be filled with fluid. This is how the characteristic small blisters of the disease arise. Dermatologist Izabella Maia helped us put together a list of the main features and symptoms of the disease:
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- Bubbles: small protrusions that, when scratched, can develop into larger bubbles and eruption of fluid within them. They appear in groups, never alone. There are two types of blisters that are characteristic of dyshidrosis: protruding small blisters and deeper opaque blisters, flush with the skin or slightly elevated. This second type does not break easily.
- Itching: It is not always itchy, but it is possible for the blisters to itch and get sore. Itching can get worse with contact with irritants.
- Cracks (cracks): When the bubbles scratch, they can rupture, releasing the internal fluid. When they heal, the skin may become thicker and drier and may crack. Cracks can be quite painful and take weeks or months to heal.
- Local burning or fever, pain and / or swelling: These symptoms may appear if there is an infectious process in place.If so, seek medical attention to treat the infection and control the symptoms again.
- Tingling: In some cases, bouts of dyshidrosis may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, which may cause tingling sensation in the forearm.
How to treat?
There are several treatments for dyshidrosis, but the most common treatment is by applying topical medications such as creams or lotions. They are used to combat symptoms since, as has been said, the disease has no cure.
According to the dermatologist consulted, only in more serious cases is the use of oral medications. In addition, in the case of secondary infection, antibiotics are indicated, and in cases more resistant to conventional treatments, immunosuppressants and phototherapy may be used.
Topical treatment
Ointments and creams used to treat dyshidrosis are usually applied twice a day and have Vaseline, mineral oil or vegetable fat in their formula to try to maintain skin hydration. Some of the types of ointments used are:
- Cortisone Creams and Ointments: relieve the symptoms of dyshidrosis and accelerate the healing process. For better absorption, the affected region may be wrapped in plastic wrap for a few minutes. But beware: Prolonged use can wear and dry the skin and make room for secondary infections.
- Urea Creams: exfoliate and moisturize the skin, preventing disease development and relieving symptoms.
- Immunosuppressive Ointments: They prevent blisters, but as they alter the immune system, they increase the chances of getting a skin infection.
- Potassium permanganate or aluminum acetate solution: ? dry? They neutralize blisters with a lot of fluid and have antiseptic effect, but should be used with caution: their application can be painful and residue left on the skin can cause burns.
Also, it is important to use a good moisturizer, as dyshidrosis leaves the skin dry.
It is important to remember that with the exception of moisturizer, all these medications should be prescribed by your doctor, considering your specific case.
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Oral Treatment
As has been said, oral treatment is indicated for slightly more severe cases of the disease. In these situations, the doctor may indicate an antihistamine (antiallergic) to improve the symptoms of itching and burning; a corticosteroid to decrease the amount and size of the bubbles; or an antibacterial in chronic cases. The doctor will review each case to determine which drug is most appropriate.
Food change
Dermatologist Izabella Maia explains that, in some cases, dyshidrosis may arise due to nickel allergy. In that case, eating food with this metal would trigger the disease. If this is the case, a dietary change is necessary to avoid canned foods, acidic foods, stainless steel cooked foods, oysters, asparagus, beans, mushrooms, onions, corn, spinach, tomatoes, peas, whole wheat, pear, tea, chocolate and baking powder.
Treatments for the most severe cases
When none of the above treatments have been effective, the doctor may recommend phototherapy, with exposure of the wound to ultraviolet light, which strengthens the skin, reducing irritation. In even more severe cases, it is possible for the doctor to recommend botulinum toxin (botox) injections, reducing the functioning of the sweat glands.
During treatment, it is very important to pay attention to proper hygiene of the affected region, which should be done with warm water and mild soap. The skin should be well dried after cleansing and hydrated at least twice a day. It is also important to avoid contact with irritants.
Home Treatments For Dyshidrosis
There are some things you can do at home to control the disease and prevent seizures. Check out some recipes and home remedies to treat dyshidrosis:
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera (aloe vera) homemade or industrialized gel can be applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation and itching, prevent bacterial infections and accelerate the skin's healing process.
Cold water compresses
If the blisters are very irritated and itchy, applying cold water gauze pads or other clean, soft-textured fabric may relieve the sensation.
White Vinegar Solution
White vinegar acts to balance the pH of the skin, preventing fungal growth. To apply it, mix one cup of vinegar for each liter of water and soak your feet or hands in this mixture for 15-20 minutes twice a day.
Chamomile Dry Grass Infusion
Chamomile has several anti-inflammatory substances that can reduce allergic skin reactions.To achieve this effect, place dried chamomile grass in a glass of boiling water and let it infuse for 15 minutes. Allow to cool and, with a clean gauze, infuse the affected area. Apply two to three times a day.
Pea and yogurt cream
Blend a handful of fresh peas with the required amount of yogurt so that the mixture becomes a consistent cream. Spread this cream on the affected area and let it work for 10 minutes. Remove with a cotton pad soaked in warm water.
Cabbage Juice
With a rolling pin, knead several fresh cabbage leaves until they let out some of their juice. Collect this liquid and apply a gauze to the affected area. Leave for 10 or 15 minutes and then wash your hands or feet normally.
Avocado Cream or Butter
Vitamins D and E present in avocado help in the formation of collagen, stimulating skin regeneration. Avocado butter can be purchased ready-made at stores that work with essential oils and vegetable butters, but avocado cream can be made at home. To do this, crush the avocado pulp well and pass in the affected area, removing after 15 minutes.
Marigold Tea
Calendula contains healing and soothing substances that help relieve itching and dry out the blisters caused by dehidrosis. To be able to enjoy all its benefits, it must be prepared by infusion.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp marigold flowers
- 200 mL of water
Method of preparation
Boil the water in a saucepan, then turn off the heat and place the marigold flowers in the water, letting stand for 10 minutes. Then strain, let cool slightly until warm and apply to clean compresses on affected area, leaving for 5 to 10 minutes.
Jasmine Tea
Jasmine flowers are known for their analgesic, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, soothing and digestive properties. In tea form, it also helps control cholesterol and prevents the onset of heart problems. Here's how to prepare it:
Ingredients
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tablespoon jasmine flowers
Method of preparation
Boil the water in a pan and then turn off the heat and place the jasmine flowers. Allow to cool completely and then strain and apply to the affected area with compresses or gauze.
Natural remedies can be very helpful in controlling a variety of diseases, but they do not replace consultation and referral to a doctor.
Preventive measures
Some attitudes may help to prevent outbreaks. Check out the preventive measures indicated by dermatologist Izabella Maia:
- Wash hands with warm water;
- Dry hands and feet well;
- Keep feet clean and dry;
- Remove the rings before washing your hands;
- Use unscented soaps;
- Use moisturizers throughout the day;
- Avoid scratching the bubbles;
- Avoid the use of irritating products;
- Give preference to wearing leather shoes and socks that facilitate sweat evaporation.
Be sure to consult a dermatologist to find out the real source of the condition and get the right treatment advice.
And, as has been said, although dyshidrosis has no cure, its symptoms can be controlled until they practically disappear. Just follow the appropriate medical treatment and preventive care and you will be able to avoid all the discomfort caused by this disease.
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