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01949.txt
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1994-01-17
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$Unique_ID{BRK01949}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Causes and Treatment for Small, Itchy Blisters}
$Subject{cause Causes treat Treatment treatments itch Itchy blister Blisters
skin crust crusts dermatosis dermatitis contact vesicle vesicles dyshidrosis
sweating disorder Nickel noxious metal metals Type A personality personalities
symptom symptoms steroid cortisone cream creams lotion lotions lesion lesions
mental emotional stress relaxation technique techniques rash rashes sweat
sweat-glands gland}
$Volume{}
$Log{}
Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
Causes and Treatment for Small, Itchy Blisters
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QUESTION: I have a perplexing condition on my hand that seems to defy the
talents of my local physicians. It starts with a group of small blisters
forming only on both palms, that grow larger, and the skin grows red. After
they leak, a crust forms, then dries up. The itch is constant, so that I am
constantly scratching my palms. Any ideas on what it is and what I can do to
rid myself of this constant annoyance?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: You could be suffering from one of many things, particularly those
skin conditions we call "dermatosis" or "dermatitis". Sometimes they result
from merely coming in touch with substances that you are sensitive to, and are
then classified as a contact dermatitis.
However, your description of small blisters (called "vesicles" in medical
nomenclature), and the fact that the rash only occurs on the palms, makes me
think your problem is one called "dyshidrosis". It is a difficult condition
to diagnose, and may not be thought about for its cause is unknown, and the
onset of the rash is difficult to relate to other specific factors. Original
investigators put the source of the trouble in the sweat glands, and so named
it dyshidrosis (sweating disorder). Nickel is often suspected in cases of
dyshidrosis, and you might wish to explore the possibility of contact with
this or other noxious metals as you seek the explanation in your case. It is
seen most frequently in persons aged 20 to 40, and women seem to be affected
as frequently as men. It occurs more frequently in warm weather and nervous
Type A personalities are more prone than others.
It's hard to treat. Soaking the hands (or feet if that's where the rash
occurs) for 30 to 60 minutes in cool water may relieve some of the symptoms.
Usually a topical steroid cortisone like cream is prescribed, and white cotton
gloves are recommended for wear after the cream is applied. Not only do they
help in the process of healing, but might keep you from scratching your
lesions. A softening or emollient cream is often used after the medicated
cream is rubbed into place. In serious cases an oral corticosteroid is
recommended, and a 1 to 3 week course of therapy is often enough to control
the rash. Many physicians also recommend a series of relaxation techniques to
reduce the mental and emotional stress that so often precedes the onset of the
rash.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.