Painful Red Bumps? It Could Be Dyshidrotic Eczema
If you’re experiencing small, painful red bumps—especially on your hands, fingers, or feet—it might not just be a rash. One possible culprit? Dyshidrotic eczema (also known as pompholyx). This skin condition is often misdiagnosed or confused with allergic reactions, fungal infections, or contact dermatitis. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of eczema that causes tiny, fluid-filled blisters to form on the edges of the fingers, palms, and soles of the feet. These blisters can be intensely itchy, painful, and may leave red, cracked, or peeling skin after they dry up.
Common Symptoms
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Itchy, red bumps or blisters on hands or feet
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Pain or burning sensation
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Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin
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Flare-ups that come and go, sometimes triggered by stress, allergies, or sweating
What Causes It?
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, triggers include:
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Stress
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Seasonal allergies
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Sweating or excessive moisture
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Metal allergies (especially nickel or cobalt)
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Irritants like soaps, detergents, or cleaning chemicals
Treatment Options
There’s no cure, but dyshidrotic eczema can be managed. Treatments include:
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Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
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Moisturizers to prevent dryness and cracking
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Cool compresses to relieve itching and discomfort
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Avoiding triggers, like stress or allergens
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Phototherapy or immune-suppressing medications in severe cases
When to See a Doctor
If the bumps are:
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Persisting for more than a few weeks
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Painful, infected, or spreading
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Affecting your daily activities
You should consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. Skin scrapings or patch tests may be used to rule out fungal infections or allergies.
Bottom Line
Painful red bumps on your hands or feet shouldn’t be ignored—especially if they come and go or worsen with stress or irritation. Dyshidrotic eczema is a manageable condition, and early treatment can prevent chronic discomfort.