The soles of your feet also can be affected.

The blisters that occur in dyshidrosis generally last around three weeks and cause intense itching.

Once the blisters of dyshidrosis dry, your skin may appear scaly.

The blisters typically recur, sometimes before your skin heals completely from the previous blisters.

Treatment for dyshidrosis most often includes creams or ointments that you rub on the affected skin.

In severe cases, your doctor may suggest corticosteroid pills, such as prednisone, or injections.

The blisters associated with dyshidrosis occur most commonly on the sides of the fingers and the palms.

Sometimes the soles of the feet also can be affected.

In more-severe cases, the small blisters may merge to form larger blisters.

Skin affected by dyshidrosis can be painful and very itchy.

Dyshidrosis tends to recur fairly regularly for months or years.

Call your doctor if you have arashon your hands or feet that doesn’t go away on its own.

The cause of dyshidrosis is unknown.

Eruptions may be seasonal in people with nasal allergies.

Risk factors for dyshidrosis include:

For most people with dyshidrosis, it’s just an itchy inconvenience.

For others, the pain and itching may limit the use of their hands or feet.

Intense scratching can increase the risk of a bacterial infection developing in the affected skin.

In most cases, your doctor can diagnose dyshidrosis based on a physical exam.

Skin allergies and sensitivities can be revealed by exposing patches of your skin to various substances.

Wrapping the treated area in plastic wrap can improve absorption.

Moist compresses also may be applied after the software of a corticosteroid to enhance the absorption of the medication.

In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid pills, such as prednisone.

Long-term use of steroids can cause serious side effects.

A side effect of these drugs is an increased risk of skin infections.

Botulinum toxin injections.Some doctors may consider recommending botulinum toxin injections to treat severe cases of dyshidrosis.

You’re likely to start by seeing your family doctor.

He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders (dermatologist).

Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

Good skin care practices may help protect the skin as well.

These include:

Updated: 2017-08-09

Publication Date: 2006-10-02