Pompholyx eczema or dyshidrosis is a rather rare skin condition which is characterized by tiny, fluid-filled blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
The blisters last for about 3 weeks and there is extreme itching. Once the blisters dry, the skin looks scaly. The blisters tend to recur, more so, before the skin gets a chance to heal entirely from the previous blisters.
The cause of pompholyx eczema is not yet known. It has been linked to atopic dermatitis, as well as certain allergic conditions, like hay fever.
Symptoms Of Pompholyx Eczema
- The blisters develop on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles of the feet. They are tiny and appear in clusters.
- Occasionally, tiny blisters merge to form larger ones.
- The skin is exceedingly itchy and may even be painful.
- Once the blisters dry in approximately 3 weeks, the underlying skin is red, scaly and tender.
- Symptoms recur regularly for months or years.
Treatment Options For Pompholyx Eczema
The following guidelines help manage the symptoms of pompholyx; nonetheless, you need to confer with a dermatologist and start conventional treatment to prevent aggravations.
- Cortico-steroids: Corticosteroid creams hasten the fading of the blisters. In severe cases, your dermatologist may prescribe oral corticosteroid pills as well.
- Anti-histamines: In very severe cases of itching anti-histamines are advised.
- Photo-therapy: A special kind of light therapy which comprises of exposure to UV light along with drugs which help make the skin more receptive to the effects of this type of light are recommended for managing the symptoms well.
- Immune-suppressing medicines: These medications are advisable since they help allay the symptoms and restrict your exposure to steroids.
- Botulinum toxin injection: Experts advise botulinum toxin injections to treat severe cases. On the other hand, it is a new therapy and hasn’t gained acceptance.
Home Remedies For Pompholyx Eczema
The following home remedies also promise to keep exacerbation at bay.
- Compresses: Apply cool, wet compresses frequently through the day; it helps alleviate the intense itching.
- Witch hazel: Is an excellent home remedy to manage the itching and the blisters. Soak the affected area in witch hazel; it expedites healing.
- Moisturize: Make sure that you lubricate the skin 2 to 3 times daily.
- Do not scratch. Cover up the affected area if you cannot stop scratching it.
- Do not use any perfumes.
- Use a very mild soap and shampoo.
- Humidifier: Dry indoor air dries up a sensitive skin and worsens the itching. A home humidifier adds moisture to the air inside your home.
- Wear cool, soft, cotton clothes. Avoid all clothes that are tight, scratchy and woolen; they aggravate the itching.
- Baking soda or oatmeal: These two are wonderful home remedies for managing the itching of pompholyx. Sprinkle the bath water with baking soda or uncooked oatmeal.
- Vitamin supplements: Vitamins A, C, D and E help nourish and care for your skin. Consult your health care provider and start these supplements.
- Selenium, zinc, evening primrose oil, oolong tea, and probiotics have been recommended by experts too, to keep symptoms of pompholyx away.
- Naturo-therapists make use of Calendula, St. John’s wort, Lavender essential oil, German chamomile, licorice, and rice bran broth to treat pompholyx.
- Manage your stress: Stress is known to worsen eczema; hence, managing and dealing effectively with stress helps keep exacerbation at bay.