Contact with an irritant or allergen triggers a localinflammatory responsethat stimulates itch receptors in the skin, callednociceptors.
The hands are commonly affected because we use them frequently to touch and grab things.
Contact dermatitis causes reddish areas of skin that can be swollen and peppered with tiny, pimple-like rashes.
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The rashes can be extremely itchy.
In severe cases, tiny blisters and breaks in the skin can develop.
OTCantihistamineslikeZytec (cetirizine)orClaritin (loratadine)can also help ease itchiness.
Applying acool compressto the affected skin can also help.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczemais a form ofdermatitisthat develops on the fingers and palms of the hands.
The affected skin may also be red, flaky, cracked, and painful.
The condition usually starts with several tiny blisters that gradually enlarge and merge into larger clusters resembling tapioca pudding.
Asecondary infectioncan occur if bacteria is introduced into scratched and broken skin.
People witheczematypically have one or more of these related conditions.
OTC antihistamines can help ease itching, whileemollient moisturizerscan soothe and repair dried, damaged skin.
A cold compress can also help.
How Common Is Dyshidrotic Eczema?
It is not known how many people are affected by the condition.
Palmoplantar Psoriasis
Psoriasisis anautoimmune diseasein which the body’simmune systemattacks skin cells with inflammation.
This increases the turnover of skin cells (meaning the speed by which cells are formed and shed).
As skin cells start to pile up on the surface, dry, itchy, scalyplaquescan form.
In addition to the itchy plaques, palmoplantar psoriasis can cause cracking and peeling between the fingers or toes.
Fingernails and toenails can also be damaged if the nail bed is affected.
This also allows deeper penetration of topical medications while you sleep.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetic peripheral neuropathyis a complication ofdiabetes.
When blood sugar is continually elevated, it can damage the protective coating of nerve cells, calledmyelin.
Peripheral neuropathy is characterized by burning, numbing, tingling, itching, or pins-and-needle sensations.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy typically triggers when a person hasn’t managed their blood sugar levels over a long period.
Scabies is treated with a topical prescription ointment or shampoo known as a scabicide.
It contains the active ingredientpermethrinwhich can kill the mites and the eggs.
One treatment can sometimes flush the infestation, but if symptoms recur, another system may be needed.
To avoid reinfestation, all bedding, towels, and clothing should be washed in hot water.
All members of the household should also be treated.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
A treatable condition or infection often causes itchy fingers.
In the case of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, the itching sensations can be indicative of nerve damage.
Summary
Itchy fingers have many causes, such as dyshidrotic eczema, psoriasis, or scabies.
Since the causes vary, so do the treatment options.
Additionally, it is a good idea to avoid harsh skin care products that may irritate.
Ensure that your hands are completely dry after washing, and wear gloves during cold, dry weather.
Before trying any OTC therapies, see your healthcare provider.
You should also see them if you have other symptoms alerting you to a treatable health disorder or diabetes.
That will help ease the itching sensation while reducing inflammation.
These symptoms should prompt you to visit your healthcare provider.
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National Eczema Association.Contact dermatitis.
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National Eczema Association.Dyshidrotic eczema.
National Psoriasis Foundation.About psoriasis.
Timotijevic ZS, Trajjkovic G.How frequently does palmoplantar psoriasis affect the palms and/or soles?
2017 Jan-Feb;35(1):19-27. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2016.09.004
Canadian Diabetes Association.Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).
