Hand dermatitis is a common disorder that occurs when chronic eczema affects the palmar and dorsal aspects of the hand. It is also known as hand eczema.
It can be extremely debilitating as it causes the hands to become extremely painful and cracked. Hand dermatitis accounts for 25% of all dermatitis. It may occur at any age, but it is often attributed to hand washing. Hand dermatitis is a very common disease in the medical profession, as these individuals wash their hands constantly throughout their work shift.
It is also common for those in the cleaning, catering, metalwork, housework, hairdressing and mechanical work industries. This is mainly due to these individuals being exposed to many irritants, but specific contact allergies can also contribute to the issue.
Injury can also cause hand dermatitis to occur. Hand dermatitis is frequently caused or aggravated by work. Sometimes they call it occupational dermatitis.
Hand dermatitis causes the skin on your hands to become red, swollen, and blistering. When it turns chronic, the skin becomes scaly and dry.
Hand dermatitis can be prevented by careful protective measures and active treatment. It is a balancing act between both.
To treat dermatitis, you must minimize contact with irritants, including water. Use a non-soap cleanser, as soap can dry out the skin. When washing hands, rinse carefully and make sure hands are completely dry after. Wear task-appropriate gloves when you can to protect your hands. Vinyl gloves are less likely to irritate the hands than rubber gloves.
You can use topical steroids to reduce inflammation. These should be applied to active dermatitis once or twice daily for several weeks until the condition clears. Once the symptoms have subsided, immediately stop using the steroid cream. Also, apply thick fragrance-free cream to the skin to keep it moist.
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