Dyshidrotic Eczema causes are not well understood, but a lot of research is being done to figure out what they might be. It can come and go quickly, or it can persist for years at a time.
Many different treatments are available but the best one will depend on the cause. In this blog post, we'll explore the 11 most common dyshidrotic eczema causes that you need to know about!
What the itchy blisters on your fingers?
The itchy blisters on your fingers may be due to what we call dyshidrotic eczema. This is a common condition that affects the hands and feet. It often affects adolescents and young adults but can occur at any age.
The blisters tend to occur mainly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They look like little bubbles filled with clear fluid and may be red around the edges or entire surface of the blister. The skin around each blister becomes red and scaly after healing.
The rash also commonly affects other parts of your body, including your elbows, knees and ankles. If you suspect you have dyshidrotic eczema, see your doctor for treatment options based on what causes your symptoms.
Most common causes of dyshidrotic eczema
The exact cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown. The following factors may trigger or aggravate an episode:
1. Genetics
Dyshidrotic eczema is most common in people who have a family history of this condition, but it may also occur in those who do not have any family history at all. Sometimes, it can run in families because one person has the disease and then their children inherit it from them. This means that they are carriers of the gene that causes dyshidrotic eczema but they don't actually have the condition themselves.
2. Environmental
However, there may also be environmental or lifestyle factors that cause the skin condition. For example, some medications and medical treatments can trigger the condition in people who have a genetic predisposition to dyshidrotic eczema.
3. Weather changes
Dyshidrotic eczema can be triggered by extreme weather conditions like dry air, cold temperatures, or heat. The onset of this condition may also coincide with seasonal change in the form of sudden and frequent changes in the climate. Hot weather can also cause dyshidrotic eczema as it can make your skin more sensitive.
4. Dry skin
There is a connection between dyshidrotic eczema and dry, irritated skin. The condition can be worsened by harsh weather conditions that lead to chapping or cracking of the skin on your hands or feet.
5. Irritating substances
Dyshidrotic eczema can also be caused by contact with irritating substances. This is called irritant contact dermatitis, a type of eczema that develops when the skin comes into direct and prolonged contact with an allergen or other harmful substance.
6. Bacterial infection
Dyshidrotic eczema causes can be attributed to bacteria that infect fingernails and armpits. The simple act of scratching an itch can transfer the bacteria causing an itchy rash on the skin from one area to another, which leads straight to dyshidrotic eczema.
HIV-positive individuals can also suffer from this, which is another type of infection that causes dyshidrotic eczema. They suffer from this because the HIV virus weakens a person’s immune system, which in turn makes dyshidrotic eczema more widespread.
7. Metal allergy
The most common cause of dyshidrotic eczema is an allergy to metal. This can be as simple as a ring that you wear or something more complex like a belt buckle or earrings. It can also be caused by the metal in some jewelry, such as bracelts or rings. Metal ions may act as allergens when they come into contact with certain metals such as nickel and cobalt. Nickel is found in many everyday items such as jewelry, belt buckles and zippers.
8. Food allergy
Other possible dyshidrotic eczema causes can be attributed to a food allergy. It is usually an allergic reaction, which means that the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema are caused by something you eat or drink getting into your bloodstream.
9. Products
Dyshidrotic eczema symptoms may be triggered by a substance or material that comes in contact with the skin. The most common causes of dyshidrotic eczema are adverse reactions to soaps, detergents, and cosmetic products.
10. Stress
Stress and anxiety can cause a flare-up of dyshidrotic eczema because stress hormones affect the immune system, causing it to over-react and release histamine. Histamine causes inflammation in the body and you'll notice this when you get hives or rashes on your skin. However, stress is not the only factor that can cause a flare-up of dyshidrotic eczema. Certain physical activities or even emotional events can also trigger an outbreak of this condition.
11. Other allergies
Some people have dyshidrotic eczema alongside other allergies like hay fever or asthma. Dyshidrotic eczema can also be triggered by certain types of drugs, such as antibiotics, which are associated with the condition in some people.
The symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema
If you have dyshidrotic eczema, the symptoms you are experiencing may differ from what is listed below. It's important for you to go see a doctor if you notice any of these signs, and then they will offer treatments or remedies based on your specific needs.
Dyshidrotic eczema can often be managed more easily if you are aware of the triggers that cause it to flare up and how to treat it when it flares.
Dry skin
Having dry skin is a symptom of dyshidrotic eczema. This is often because it can cause the skin to lose its moisturizer resulting in dry and itchy patches on your skin. The skin around your fingers and toes may be dry, scaly, red or irritated. It can also be rough or bumpy.
Cracked skin
You may notice small cracks in the skin around your fingers and toes. These cracks may bleed easily or become infected. If you see your skin cracked or peeling, dyshidrotic eczema is a good possibility.
Sore skin
Dyshidrotic eczema can also cause your skin to become sore and inflamed. The blisters may hurt when you walk, touch them or rub against clothing. They're usually small, but sometimes they can be larger or cover an entire joint. This means that you will be more likely to feel pain when eczema flares up which can result in scratching at it excessively for relief.
Frequent blisters
When dyshidrotic eczema flares up, it will often create small blisters. Blisters usually form in groups on your palms, but they may also appear on your feet or both areas at once. Blisters might look like tiny bubbles or wet patches with raised edges that turn into dry scabs when they heal. These are hypersensitive inflammatory reactions to the condition that is happening on your skin and can be an indication of eczema.
Skin changes in color
It can also cause changes in the colour of your skin. You may notice that it will often turn red or pink, and this is a sign that dyshidrotic eczema has been active for quite some time now on your skin.
How do you get dyshidrotic eczema blisters to go away?
Dyshidrotic eczema is often treated with moisturizing creams. Sufferers may also need to take antibiotics, antifungals, or other medications as well.
Some people who suffer from this skin condition have found that diets can be helpful for preventing flare-ups or reducing their severity. Dyshidrotic eczema can be a chronic disease, so it is important to find the right treatment for your symptoms and avoid any known triggers as much as possible.
Some people found other treatment options like doing home remedies. These treatments included honey, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or baking soda mixed with water as a topical treatment and turmeric in your food every day to ingest.
Keep away from any triggers, which can include wool fabrics, hand sanitizers, or detergents. Avoid foods and drinks that cause inflammation, such as coffee or high-sugar foods. Dyshidrotic eczema can also be triggered by stress and anxiety, so keep calm to stay healthy.
Conclusion
There are a lot of causes of dyshidrotic eczemas, and it can be difficult to determine what’s causing your symptoms. Dyshidrotic eczema can be a very frustrating skin condition to have and it is often hard to control.
While there is no known cure at this time, there are steps you can take to treat the condition and alleviate some of your symptoms. If you know how to address the underlying cause, most people see a decrease in inflammation and relief from their symptoms.
The more you know about dyshidrotic eczema, the better chance you have of managing it without issue.
