Hand Dermatitis - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Definition

Hand dermatitis is also known as hand eczema. It is an inflammatory condition which causes the skin to be red, scaly and very itchy. In colored skin this may be purpler than red or even just a deepening of the skin color. It often results from a combination of causes, including genetic makeup, injury and allergy. It is frequently caused or aggravated by work, when it is known as occupational dermatitis. Hand dermatitis is particularly common in industries involving cleaning, catering, metalwork, hairdressing, healthcare and mechanical work. Not everyone gets hand dermatitis. Many people are fortunate enough to have tough skin but, unfortunately, some people have skin that is easily damaged and thus, more susceptible to dermatitis. Of those with atopic eczema in childhood about 40% will experience irritant hand dermatitis. About 70% of these individuals will have hand involvement if their work involves regular contact with hand irritants.

Causes

1. Hand dermatitis can be caused by contact with an irritant, an allergic reaction to a substance, or an inherited condition.
2. Hand dermatitis is most often caused by detergents, certain types of metals, soaps, strong chemicals, and solvents that, either immediately or after repeated exposure, irritate the skin.
3. Latex can also cause hand dermatitis. It is found in medical gloves and condoms.
4. Fragrances and other substances found in cosmetics and skin creams can also cause hand dermatitis.
5. Nickel, plants such as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac and chemicals used in the clothing manufacturing process may also cause hand dermatitis.
6. Certain types of fungal infections such as tinea pedis can also cause hand dermatitis.

Symptoms

1. Hand dermatitis can range from a mild, itchy rash to severe itching, swelling, and blistering.
2. In severe cases, open sores can result in bacterial skin infections.
3. When hand dermatitis is caused by a fungal infection, the symptoms include itchy blisters along the sides of the fingers.
4. Some people have skin that is easily damaged and thus, more susceptible to dermatitis. Those with hand dermatitis often have dermatitis elsewhere, and frequently blood relatives have hand dermatitis.

Treatment

1. Protect your hands using vinyl gloves, which are less likely than rubber to cause allergic reactions. Don't wear these for long periods, as sweating will also aggravate dermatitis. Always make sure the gloves are scrupulously clean inside.
2. Topical steroids can be use to reduce inflammation by prescription from a doctor. These come in various strengths and should only be applied to areas of active dermatitis once or twice daily. Generally a potent topical steroid is used for several weeks.
3. A few days off work may be helpful.
4. Use emollients frequently. A thin smear of a thick barrier cream should be applied to all affected areas before work, and reapplied after washing and whenever the skin dries out.
5. Avoid direct contact with turpentine, paint thinner and paints. Also polishes for furniture, metal, floors, and shoes. When using them, wear heavy duty gloves because they contain irritating solvents.
6. A natural treatment such as Epitrex can help eliminate flare-ups.