Facts About Dyshidrosis

Dyshidrosis is a common disorder affecting the hands and feet. The exact cause is not known, but it possibly comes from some abnormal function in the sweating mechanism. The condition may be mild with only a little peeling or very severe with big blisters and cracks which are so uncomfortable that the patient cannot work.

Acute & Chronic Stages

The first (acute) stage shows tiny blisters deep in the skin, associated with itching and burning sensations. The later and more chronic stage shows more peeling, cracking or crusting. Some patients will have mostly one stage, and some patients will have mostly the other. Sometimes both stages occur at the same time.

Dyshidrosis does not have any quick cure. It often runs a chronic course, but sometimes it does go away for long periods. Many times flare ups occur after a period of nervous tension, worry or other emotional conflict, just as tension may aggravate ulcer symptoms in patients with ulcer disease.

Treatment

Treatment varies with the stage of the disease. In the acute, blistering stage, cool compresses or soaks with Burow's solution (one packet or tablet dissolved in one pint of water) used for 15-30 minutes 2-4 times a day may help to dry up the blisters. Following the soaks, these areas should be dried and the medicated cream or gel applied.

In the chronic stage cortisone creams or ointments help to reduce inflammation and itching and speed recovery. In severe cases cortisone tablets or injections may be used for limited periods.

Sometimes the affected areas may become secondarily infected with bacteria at the site of cracks or broken blisters. If this happens, your doctor will use appropriate additional treatment.

Although at present dyshidrosis is not curable, satisfactory control can usually be obtained by the treatments outlined. Most people sooner or later have less and less trouble -- as time goes on the disorder subsides. Do not lose hope!

Source: Department of Dermatology, Camino Medical Group

Reviewed: July 2007

Reviewed By: Dr. Ann Ortmeyer

Camino Medical Group Dermatology