Causes Of Itchy Palms
It is very common that, on occasions, the palms of our hands itch. This can be very annoying, even spreading to the fingers. Itchy palms have many causes, from minor dryness to conditions that require medical treatment.
Here we tell you what are the most frequent origins of itching in the palms of the hands and some tricks to improve it. Anyway, remember that the consultation with the doctor is essential if you have doubts.
The most common cause of itchy palms
As we have commented, the causes can be very diverse. Fortunately, the most common are the less serious origins of the disorder, and this is dry skin.
When the skin is dry, that is, it lacks hydration, it becomes irritated, losing its protective barrier. As a result, cracks appear and the annoying sensation of itching in the palms of the hands becomes evident.
We must bear in mind that the hands are our most exposed tool, the one that comes into contact with everything that surrounds us. That is why they are the most vulnerable part of our body to irritation or allergic reactions.
Other causes of itching
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is the result of direct contact with a substance or object with irritants to the skin. It causes the skin to become red, itchy, or even painful and inflamed.
Some of the substances that most frequently cause this type of dermatitis are, for example, dyes, some cleaning chemicals such as detergents, or cement. These substances are usually just as irritating to anyone.
Allergic dermatitis
The symptoms that appear are the same as in contact dermatitis. The difference is that, in this case, the substance that causes dermatitis is not an irritant for any person, but is something specific to what a person has an allergy.
Some examples of substances that a person may be allergic to are latex, some types of plants, or cosmetics such as nail polish.
Dyshidrotic eczema
The exact cause of dyshidrotic eczema is not known. When it appears, it causes blisters on the palms of the hands and feet that are filled with fluid, in addition to peeling, and a burning and itching sensation.
It usually occurs more in spring and autumn, or in times of stress. As the exact cause that causes it is not known, no measures can be taken to prevent it from appearing. Dyshidrotic eczema tends to flare up several times throughout the life of the patient.
Mushrooms
The gap between the fingers is a place where heat and moisture accumulate. These are the perfect conditions for fungus to grow. They also cause irritation and flaking, with quite itching even in the palms of the hands.
Pustular psoriasis
It is a type of psoriasis presentation that affects the palms of the hands and feet. Its exact cause is not known, although, like dyshidrotic eczema, it is believed to be related to stress or autoimmune phenomena.
It appears pus filled papules are not infectious. They are very annoying and cause pain and itching. Treatment is similar to that used for general psoriasis.
How to treat itchy palms?
As there are so many causes that can cause it, there are also many and very different ways to treat and prevent itchy hands. In conditions involving inflammation or allergy, corticosteroid ointments, for example, may be helpful.
In psoriasis or dyshidrotic eczema, it will be essential to avoid stressful situations. Of course, in cases of allergy or contact dermatitis, avoiding the manipulation of the substances that cause it will be essential.
In addition to these specific measures, it is also important, in general, that we maintain proper hand hygiene and that we try to keep them hydrated, but not excessively.
When to consult if we have itchiness?
There are many causes that can cause this annoying symptom, sometimes so difficult to calm down. In the event that the itch appears together with lesions such as blisters and inflammation, we will have to go to the specialist, since it will be the one who decides what is the diagnosis and the best treatment.
It is also important that we take care of our hands, since they are one of the most exposed parts of our body. With our hands we come into contact with much of the world and with other people.
