Itchy Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatment Options

My hands and feet are very itchy?

I used to have a frequent problem with itchy hands and feet when I was younger, and I often experienced excessive sweating in my hands and feet.
I had small blisters, peeling skin, and redness on my hands, and even when I applied medication, the sweat would wash it away.
The same issue occurred with my feet, where I had small blisters that were very itchy, affecting both my toes and the soles.
When I visited a dermatologist, they diagnosed me with dyshidrotic eczema and athlete's foot, but the medication didn't help.
I would like to know if this could be pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema.
I have been troubled by this for a long time, especially during the spring and summer.
In the winter, my hands and feet become cracked and painful.
I would like to ask if the doctor recommends that I see a physician again to confirm my condition, or what would be the best treatment.
Additionally, how can I improve my situation? Thank you for taking the time to read my lengthy question.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
A proper examination is necessary to understand the problem and to determine the appropriate course of action.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

Itchy hands and feet can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, often leading to significant distress and disruption in daily activities. Based on your description, it seems you may be dealing with a condition known as dyshidrotic eczema (also referred to as pompholyx), which is characterized by small, itchy blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This condition can be exacerbated by sweating, stress, and certain environmental factors.

The symptoms you describe, including the presence of small blisters, peeling skin, and intense itching, align with dyshidrotic eczema. This condition is often triggered by factors such as excessive sweating, exposure to irritants, or even allergies. The fact that you experience these symptoms more frequently in the spring and summer suggests that environmental factors, such as heat and humidity, may play a role in your flare-ups.

On the other hand, "富貴手" (also known as pompholyx) and "香港腳" (athlete's foot) are terms that refer to different skin conditions. Pompholyx is indeed a form of eczema, while athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the feet, causing itching, redness, and peeling skin, particularly between the toes. If you have been diagnosed with both conditions, it is essential to differentiate between them, as the treatment approaches vary significantly.

Given your history of persistent symptoms and the ineffectiveness of previous treatments, it would be advisable to revisit a dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation. A dermatologist can perform a thorough examination of your skin and may recommend patch testing to identify any potential allergens or irritants that could be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, they may suggest a skin biopsy if the diagnosis remains unclear.

In terms of treatment options, there are several approaches that may help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Topical Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with eczema. Your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger topical steroid for flare-ups.

2. Moisturizers: Regularly applying emollients can help maintain skin hydration and prevent dryness, which can exacerbate itching and irritation. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.

3. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines may help reduce itching, especially if taken before bedtime.

4. Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding potential triggers, such as certain soaps, detergents, or fabrics, can help minimize flare-ups. Keeping your hands dry and avoiding excessive sweating can also be beneficial.

5. Wet Wrap Therapy: This involves applying topical medications and then wrapping the area with wet bandages to enhance absorption and provide relief.

6. Phototherapy: In some cases, light therapy may be recommended for chronic eczema that does not respond to topical treatments.

7. Oral Medications: For severe cases, systemic medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be considered.

8. Fungal Treatments: If your symptoms are indeed due to a fungal infection like athlete's foot, antifungal creams or oral medications may be necessary.

In conclusion, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist to accurately diagnose your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan. Managing itchy hands and feet often requires a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, topical treatments, and possibly systemic therapies. With the right care, you can find relief from your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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