Treatment:

• Anti-itch medicines taken by mouth (antihistamines)
• Moisturizers
• Strong steroid creams or ointments

Do not scratch the blisters. You should avoid frequent bathing and irritating substances, which can make itching worse.

Expectations (prognosis):

Dyshidrotic eczema normally goes away without problems, but symptoms may later return. Excess scratching may lead to thick, irritated skin, which is more difficult to treat and takes longer to heal.

Complications:

• Pain and itching that limits the use of the hands
• Secondary bacterial infection

Calling your health care provider:

Call your doctor if you have tenderness, redness, warmth, or fever, which may be signs of an infection. You should also call your doctor if you have any type of rash that does not go away with simple home treatments.