The Itch on Eczema

Dyshidrotic Eczema is the term used to describe a particular occurrence of eczema. Dyshidrotic Eczema (from the Greek word for “bad sweating”) is characterized by small blisters on the hands and feet. It is acute, and in many cases it is chronic.

The blisters are typically very small (1mm in diameter), and appear in multitudes all at once. They appear deeply seated in the skin, and gradually come together to form larger blisters. When the blisters break the skin becomes cracked and dry, taking months to heal in some cases. The bursting of the blisters is very painful - sometimes accompanied by the swelling of lymph nodes, a tingling sensation may be felt in the forearms and lumps may be present in the armpits. If Dyshidrotic Eczema is present on the tips of fingers or toes the nails may take on a pitted appearance.

Historically linked to excessive sweating, this supposed cause of Dyshidrotic Eczema has now been disproven: the fluid within the blisters is now known to be serum, not sweat. Some people find that excessive sun exposure during the summer months leads to the onset of Dyshidrotic Eczema outbreaks, while others find that some detergents, soaps, or even fresh meat and fruit juice trigger allergies. Damp skin will trigger or aggravate outbreaks. Like all eczema Dyshidrotic Eczema is genetically inherited (and triggered by environmental factors), and is not contagious.