Eczema on the hands has various causes. It may lead to contact with some irritating substances. It can also result in allergic reactions. In the course of eczema, there may be very bothersome symptoms, such as intense itching or severe pain. Treatment of eczema on the hands is based on the use of various methods. However, before turning it on, thorough diagnostics is necessary.

Eczemais a term commonly used for skin lesions. In medical terminology it is referred to as eczema. Eczema can appear anywhere on the body and in any age group. A fairly common problem that hinders everyday functioning iseczema on hands .

Eczema on hands: causes

There are generally two types of eczema: endogenous and exogenous.

Endogenous eczema

Endogenous eczema occurs when the patient's skin changes appear due to impaired immune system functions. This form of the problem is related to genetic conditions and its symptoms may appear, for example, after entering the patient's body of some substance causing an allergic reaction.

Exogenous eczema

The causes of exogenous eczema are completely different. It occurs as a result of skin contact with some irritating substances, such as detergents, but also various cosmetics or … jewelry (especially the one made of nickel).

Eczema on hands can also appear after contact with pesticides, building materials, various oils or some plants.

Eczema on hands: symptoms

At first, the skin becomes red and may be puffed up. Later, more and more changes appear, which may be:

  • bubbles,
  • clumps
  • or erosions.

Erosions usually develop when bubbles rupture. They can also appear due to the scratching of skin lesions by patients.

Erosions are not only unsightly, but their presence may be associated with even severe pain.

Patients' skin may become dry over time.Sometimes it is observed flaking or excessive tightening.

The hands of an eczema patient can look really disturbing. It is worth emphasizing, however, that there is no need to avoid contact with such a person, becauseeczema on hands is not contagious .

Eczema on hands: diagnosis

Eczema on the hands is a treatable condition. Before starting treatment, it is necessary to undergo appropriate diagnostics. Patients may receive different recommendations depending on the cause of the problem.

Initially, it is best to go to a dermatologist, who - then - can refer the patient, inter alia, to to the allergist.

Initially, in the diagnosis of eczema on the hands, it is important to collect a medical history with the patient and assess the existing skin changes.

Sometimes it is already possible to identify the cause of eczema on the hands. This may happen when the patient has exogenous eczema resulting from exposure to cleaning products while performing professional duties.

Otherwise, additional tests are ordered, such as:

  • allergy tests
  • or histopathological examinations.

Hand eczema must be differentiated from other individuals in which similar symptoms may appear. In the differential diagnosis, the following should be considered:

  • psoriasis,
  • fungal infections
  • and scabies.

Eczema on hands: treatment

Handling hand eczema depends on the cause of the problem. When a patient develops exogenous eczema, it is most important to avoid contact with the irritating substance.

Discontinuation of contact with the allergen reduces the possibility of skin lesions reoccurring. However, it does not affect the changes that have already appeared in the patient. These can be reduced with the use of appropriate pharmaceuticals.

Topical preparations

Treatment of eczema on the hands is based primarily on the use of topical preparations. It is very important to use emollients, i.e. preparations with a moisturizing effect and increasing the hydration of the skin.

Various ointments containing glucocorticosteroids are also commonly used.

Drugs with antihistamines

Patients with extremely severe itching of the skin may be advised to take antihistamines.

Among other drugs that are also used to treat eczemaon the hands, you can replace, among others:

  • azathioprine,
  • cyclosporine
  • and methotrexate.

Eczema on the hands: prevention

A patient who develops eczema on his hands should implement certain measures to prevent it from reappearing.

First of all, he should avoid exposure to substances that clearly have a negative effect on the condition of his skin.

However, general care for the condition of the skin is also recommended:

  • wearing clothes made of natural, airy materials,
  • use of cosmetic preparations free of artificial colors and flavors, which are also intended for the care of sensitive skin,
  • regular skin hydration.
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Category:

Dermatology