Eczema: Caring for your hands and feet

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Hands and feet are often prime targets for eczema triggers. The itchy patches of eczema on the fingers and toes are often very itchy and painful. Here are some suggestions for you to take care of your hands and feet when you have eczema.

1. Eczema Overview


Bệnh chàm là gì?
Bệnh chàm là gì?

Eczema is also known as a skin rash condition. It is very common in babies and toddlers. Adults can also get eczema, which manifests as scaly patches of skin on the hands or feet. Itching is one of the main symptoms of eczema.
Besides, other manifestations of the disease can be a change in skin color in the affected area, appearance of dry, scaly skin, with small bumps. After healing, the eczema affected area may be lighter or darker than the rest of the skin.
Although experts are not sure exactly what causes eczema, most believe it can be a combination of environmental factors and genetic factors. Exposure to allergens in foods, weather, chemicals, etc. can make eczema worse. Symptoms of hand eczema can include red, itchy, scaly, painful, and dry hands. Blood or pus may drain from cracks and blisters in the skin.
Another type of hand eczema is called contact dermatitis. It is associated with direct exposure to irritants such as chemicals. It is common among hairdressers, cleaners, plumbers and construction workers, as well as people who frequently wash their hands throughout the day. Eczema can cause itchy blisters on the hands, fingers, feet, and toes. It is often triggered by stress, humidity, and exposure to certain metals such as nickel or cobalt.

2. Methods of skin care for hands and feet when having eczema


Lưu ý trong chăm sóc da khi bị bệnh chàm
Lưu ý trong chăm sóc da khi bị bệnh chàm

2.1 Cut back on washing hands Hand hygiene with eczema should stop at only washing hands when they are dirty or have germs on them. Each time you wash, you should wash off any skin oils you have applied before. Consider choosing hand soaps that do not contain harsh chemicals and detergents.
Look for products that are gentle and gentle on sensitive skin. If you wear a ring, remove it before washing. Wash your hands with warm water, then pat dry and moisturize before you put the ring back on.
2.2 Wear gloves when doing housework You should wear protective gloves made of cotton when you do housework or when in contact with cleaning agents. Gloves made of latex can cause skin allergies. Therefore, it is best not to use them. Wearing waterproof gloves for too long can make your hands sweat and lead to itchy eczema.
2.3 Caring for Cracks on Your Hands If eczema causes the skin of your hands to crack and bleed, try the following soaking and conditioning technique. Soak your hands in warm water for 5-10 minutes and then let the skin dry. Apply ointment all over your hands and wear cotton gloves. Glycerin ointment also works to help heal dry, cracked skin. Wear gloves after applying the medicine for at least 30 minutes.
Do it regularly, twice a day. If you don't have the condition to do it continuously, make sure your hands are always moisturized regularly.
2.4 Reduce bathing time To prevent dry skin, you should not shower too long and should shower with warm water every day. Use soaps/shower gels that are mild and highly moisturizing. After showering, pat dry your skin and apply moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp. Look for fragrance-free body washes and moisturizers, as ingredients that create scents can trigger eczema to appear.
2.5 Take care of your feet If your feet are often dry and itchy. It could be because you have left your feet in a tight state and sweat a lot from using synthetic and wool socks. These materials are very irritating to the skin. Choose 100% cotton socks, preferably ones that have not been dyed.
Also, change socks a few times a day if your feet sweat. Wet socks can make eczema worse. Nylon, which contains dyes and chemicals, should be avoided as it can irritate the skin.

3. Prevention and treatment of hand eczema


Điều trị bệnh chàm như thế nào?
Điều trị bệnh chàm như thế nào?

The key to both the prevention and treatment of hand eczema is to find what causes it and avoid those triggers whenever possible. Here are a few smart strategies that can help you prevent hand eczema.
Limit contact with water, especially hot water and soap. Wash dishes in the dishwasher if possible and hand wash with warm water and unscented soap. Apply moisturizer immediately after cleaning your hands and apply it regularly throughout the day. Look for hand products that contain humectants or emollients. Stay away from antibacterial soaps. These are more irritating to the skin than beneficial to the skin of the hands. Dry hand sanitizers are more likely to contain alcohol and chemicals that can cause irritation. Take care of any dry, cracked or cut skin. Don't give chemicals a chance to come into contact with them and cause irritation. Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading doctors, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consulting services. and comprehensive, professional medical treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space. Customers when choosing to perform tests here can be completely assured of the accuracy of test results.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

Articles refer to sources: aad.org, webmd.com, health.com
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