Hand Eczema - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Itchy rashes on the hands may be caused by allergies, dry skin, or even psoriasis. However, if you are experiencing symptoms such as chapped hands, itchy skin, and red rashes, then you may be suffering from eczema. Popularly known as hand dermatitis, this skin condition may cause extreme discomfort and interfere with your work as well as your everyday activities. Here are some of the best ways to prevent and cure this condition.

Hand eczema - an overview

Hand dermatitis is a common skin condition that may cause a wide range of mild to severe symptoms. In the United States, it has been known to affect as many as 1 in 10 people. Although hand eczema may be caused by a variety of factors, 80% of those who are suffering from this condition acquired it from their jobs. It is most common in women, especially those who keep jobs that require frequent hand washing or exposure to various solvents and chemicals.

This condition usually starts with dry, chapped hands. It eventually progresses to scaly, red, and itchy skin. Severe symptoms may also include blistered skin that weeps and cracks. Regardless of what symptoms you are currently experiencing, you can still overcome this stubborn condition. Once you have modified your lifestyle and used appropriate medical therapies, you can easily say goodbye to its symptoms for good.

Tips for curing hand eczema

If you are suffering from hand dermatitis, certain factors may aggravate its symptoms and make your condition much worse. You can start fighting back against this condition by keeping a diary and using it to identify external factors that usually trigger its symptoms. Flare-ups are usually associated with constant exposure to soaps, synthetic fibers, certain fragrances, and cosmetics so you have to take note of these common irritants.

Avoidance may be the cornerstone of preventing hand dermatitis but you can still use other strategies such as taking a daily bath while limiting your bath time to approximately 15 minutes. Three minutes after bathing, use a fragrance-free cream or oil to moisturize your skin and protect it from irritants and allergens. You should also use plastic gloves whenever you need to use harsh detergents, soaps, and other chemicals.

If these simple home treatments fail, you can also consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider and ask them to prescribe appropriate medical treatments. Phototherapy, oral antihistamines, oral corticosteroids, and tar treatments are only some of the methods you can use to address the symptoms of dermatitis. Appropriate self-care and medical treatments are all you need to get rid of hand eczema and its irritating symptoms.

To find out more about skin conditions that cause skin rashes and itchy red bumps on skin, read this article on eczema vs psoriasis, and on itchy rash on hands.


Original article

No comments:

Blog Archive