Dyshidrotic Eczema is one form of Eczema that is hard to understand. It's not much known outside of medical circles but sufferers report it can be an embarrassing condition and difficult to live with. If you are suffering from Dyshidrotic Eczema then keep reading because we're going to explain what it is and what treatments there are.
It's believed that the immune system overreacts to bacteria in the sweat, causing the itching, inflammation and severe dryness. Stress, hormone changes and food sensitivities can also trigger outbreaks of dyshidrotic eczema. Triggers can include many things such as emotional stress, extreme temperatures, using perfumed products around the face, clothing etc, stress caused by the baby changing nappies, hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause, severe allergies, detergents, certain chemicals used in clothes, washing clothes etc. And as it's very hard to pinpoint the exact cause, the usual treatments don't work for everyone.
The pompholyx eczematosis of dyshidrotic eczema is the most difficult type of chronic dermatitis to treat successfully. It causes small blisters that itch and burn extremely badly. As the condition is so serious, it makes life difficult from day to day. Dyshidrotic dermatitis is painful, but is not contagious. It can spread rapidly between people if neglected, although it tends not to spread beyond the family.
Dyshidrotic dermatitis or pompholyx eczematosis is a chronic systemic disorder. For people with this condition, there are two classifications of dermatitis; Visceral Papillomatosis or VP, and Vascular Papillomatosis or VP. Both these types of dyshidrotic eczema are characterized by the formation of plaques in the outer layers of skin, known as modules. People with either condition also experience redness, swelling, and irritation in the area. The vesicles are often surrounded by a yellowish to brown colored bump.
The treatments for dyshidrotic eczema vary according to which type is diagnosed. Treatment in the VSA classification is aimed at reducing the size of the plaques. For pompholyx, the treatment focuses mainly on decreasing fluid output through increased fluid removal and increased sweating. Medicines like triptans increase the immune system's response to fight off infections and may be prescribed along with other drugs.
If the disease is suspected, a medical check is necessary first. A skin biopsy will provide results of skin cell proliferation and determine whether dyshidrotic eczema is present or not. If the biopsy confirms the presence of papules, pustules, and nodules, your doctor may suggest a treatment plan based on these findings. If the condition is caused by inhalation of allergens (see Allergic Eczema), your doctor may recommend that you avoid the allergen, while giving you an allergy shot.
Dyshidrotic Eczema is a particularly difficult condition to treat, as it often comes with many uncomfortable side effects such as itchiness, dryness, inflammation, blisters, and weight loss. While most people with it are able to control their symptoms to some degree, there is no cure for the condition. However, it can be successfully managed by managing the triggers that cause it. While treating dyshidrotic eczema, doctors also need to be aware of possible seasonal allergies, as well as environmental allergens. By following a regular allergy routine and making sure to keep windows open and air circulating, many people find that they can significantly reduce the number and severity of their itchy, dry skin.