Dyshidrotic Dermatitis Pompholyx

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis

I. Definition:

Dyshidrotic dermatitis (pompholyx) is a form of hand eczema more common in women which starts on the sides of the fingers as itchy little bumps and then develops into a rash. The condition can also affect only the feet. Some patients have involvement of both the hands and feet.

II. Causes:

People who have dyshidrotic dermatitis are genetically predisposed to it.
Dyshidrotic dermatitis often appears during times of stress.

III. Treatment

One of the most effective natural treatments is a product called ClearSkin-E Cream which can eliminate flare-ups.
Skin protection is an important part of treatment.
Protect your hands from direct contact with soaps, detergents, scouring powders, and similar irritating chemicals by wearing waterproof, cotton lined, gloves.
Wear waterproof gloves while peeling and squeezing lemons, oranges, or grapefruit, peeling potatoes, and handling tomatoes.
Wear heavy duty gloves when doing heavy work and gardening. Also wear cotton gloves when doing dry housework.
If you have a dishwasher, use it regularly. If not, let a member of the family do the dishes. Do your laundry by machine, not by hand.
Avoid direct contact with turpentine, paint thinner and paints. Also polishes for furniture, metal, floors, and shoes. When using them, wear heavy duty gloves because they contain irritating solvents.
When washing your hands, use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap such as Dove or Basis. Rinse the soap off carefully and dry gently. All soaps are irritating. No soap is "gentle to your skin." Soap free cleansers are less irritating than soap and are recommended for this condition.
Rings often worsen dermatitis by trapping irritating materials beneath them. Remove your rings when doing housework and before washing your hands.
When outdoors, in cold or windy weather, wear unlined leather gloves to protect your hands from drying and chapping.
Use only the prescribed medicines (usually cortisone ointments) and lubricants such as Cutemol Emollient Cream. Do not use other lotions, creams, or medications--they may irritate your skin.
Protect your hands for at least four months after your dermatitis has healed. It takes a long time for skin to recover, and unless you're careful, the dermatitis will recur.
If you have a tendency to develop dyshidrotic dermatitis of the feet, you should wear socks which are at least 60% cotton. You should change your shoes everyday. Alternate 2-3 pairs of shoes, so the shoes will dry out completely before you use them again.

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