Hand eczema:
It is a skin problem that affects the hands, resulting in inflammation, dryness, itching, and irritation of the skin. It is one of the most common types of eczema and is usually a long-term condition. It can occur at any age, including during childhood.
Causes:
Skin eczema is often caused by an allergic reaction to any substance that irritates the skin. Since many things can cause hand eczema, pinpointing the cause can be difficult, so it may be helpful to see a dermatologist to determine the cause and avoid it.
Symptoms:
- Dry and cracked skin (often the first sign)
- Red or dark brown spots of irritation on the skin.
- Inflammation, peeling and itching of the skin.
- Feeling of burning
- Itchy blisters
- Deep and painful cracks
- Scabs, pus, and pain on the affected skin.
Irritants:
- Exposure of hands to water for long periods.
- Chemicals (such as detergents).
- Rapid temperature change.
- Heat or cold.
- Friction
- Stress or anxiety.
Treatment:
Effective treatment begins with finding the cause (irritants), and the doctor may include a moisturizer, barrier repair cream, or cortisone cream in the treatment plan.
Instructions for those with hand eczema:
- Knowing the substances that cause hand eczema and protecting hands at home and work; to protect the skin from further irritation.
- Wash hands with lukewarm (not hot) water and fragrance-free soap.
- Gently dry your hands, then apply moisturizer immediately after washing your hands.
The most effective moisturizers are those with a high oil content (e.g.: ointments and creams):
- Keep a humidifier near every sink in the house; to avoid forgetting to use it after washing your hands.
- Avoid waterless antibacterial cleansers, which often contain ingredients (such as alcohol) that are too harsh on the hands, especially during irritation.
- Keep cotton gloves around the house; to protect hands while doing household chores and wash them with a fragrance-free detergent when dirty.
- Use disposable gloves when handling foods (such as potatoes, onions, or peppers), meat, or acidic fruits (such as tomatoes or citrus fruits).
- Ask someone else to shampoo your hair or wash it yourself while wearing protective gloves (waterproof vinyl with cotton linings).
- Remove rings from fingers while doing household chores and before washing and drying hands, as irritating substances can get stuck underneath them.
- Keep clothing, protective equipment, tools, and work surfaces clean and free of irritating residue.
- Treat hand wounds (even minor ones) and bandage them; To avoid irritation from allergens or chemicals.