Small itchy bumps on hands are an indication of dyshidrotic eczema, fungal skin infection or even scabies, in which small blisters are seen in large number on the fingers.
Itchy bumps on hands are quite irritating, as one has to frequently scratch the fingers and palm to get rid of the itchiness. These tiny bumps are more concentrated on the fingers that cause considerable itching. In many cases, these tiny bumps go away on their own, however, they reappear within a day or two. These itchy bumps that look like blisters, can be a symptom of wide range of skin problems.
| Salt Water Solution – Home Remedy |
Salt is well-known for its antimicrobial properties, hence soaking the affected area in salt water solution may help in getting rid of skin infections. You need to use sea salt to make this solution. However, in case you are unable to find sea salt, going for table salt is also a good alternative. Here’s how you should go about it:
- Take 3-4 glasses of water in a container and heat it until it starts boiling.
- Turn off the heat and allow the water to cool until it becomes warm.
- Now, add 2-3 tablespoons of salt to the container and mix it well. The saline water thus prepared can now be used to treat this skin problem.
Note: For best results, soak your hands everyday in salt water solution for 10-15 minutes. In order to make this home remedy more effective, it is better to make a fresh solution for daily use.
Causes and Treatment
Dyshidrotic Eczema:
Eczema refers to the inflammation of the skin, that is marked by rash (appearance of blisters). This rash is very itchy and generally affects the face and the knees. When the skin rash invades the hand, it is called dyshidrotic eczema. Also referred to as hand eczema, this skin condition shows the presence of tiny bumps on the palms and sides of the fingers. Itching associated with dyshidrotic eczema worsens at night and in warm weather.
A point to note here, is that dyshidrotic eczema is a minor skin problem, as the blisters do not contain any pus and are filled with normal body fluid. These itchy bumps may remain for months. Many people are under the wrong impression that excessive sweating causes this skin issue. Surprisingly, the exact cause of this skin problem is still not known.
Treatment:
In order to get rid of intense itching that accompanies dyshidrotic eczema, one can use skin creams that are specifically designed for this type of skin problem. Over-the-counter topical cortisone creams are useful to treat this skin condition. Apply these creams twice daily to get the desired results.
Fungal Skin Infection:
A fungal skin infection can also cause blister like bumps to appear on the hands. Thus fungus causes a rash that usually appears on the palm of your hand. There are different types of fungus such as tinea versicolor, yeast (Candida albicans), tinea corporis, tinea pedis and tinea cruris. Although, these fungal infections are known to affect a specific part of the body, in severe cases they may no longer be confined to that area. For instance, tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) that affect the feet can also spread to the hands. Similarly, groin fungal infections (jock itch) may also break out on the hands. Initially, the infection causes thick, scaly skin and eventually blisters form on the affected area.
Treatment:
Antifungal creams and powders like Lotrimin Ultra is often the first line of treatment for fungal skin infections. However, in case of severe infections, oral antifungal agents such as itraconazole (Sporanox) are prescribed.
Insect Bite:
A bee sting or a mosquito bite usually causes a mild allergic reaction that represents as itchy bumps or pimples. Usually, these least concerning reactions are noticed on the areas of the body that are usually not covered by clothing such as the hands and the feet. In most cases, these itchy bumps are seen scattered on the dorsal side of the hand. Initially, the region of hand stung or bitten by the insect appears red and this is followed by swelling and formation of painful bumps. Stings and bites from insects like spiders, ants, bugs and wasps can also cause itchy bumps to appear on the affected area.
Treatment:
Usually, treatment for insect bites or stings that cause a mild allergic reaction is not necessary but to ease the discomfort (in case you are unable to tolerate), painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol and application of corticosteroid creams might be recommended. Children who are below 16 years of age are prescribed acetaminophen. Other options to reduce the pain and swelling involves use of sprays containing a local anesthetic. Applying an ice pack on the affected area in a circular fashion can also relieve the itchy feeling and alleviate the pain.
Scabies:
Tiny itchy bumps on hands could also mean scabies infestation. Scabies, a parasitic skin infection marked by intense itching, is caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. As soon as the parasite comes in contact with skin, they start digging into the soft tissues of the skin to lay their eggs. The burrowing action of scabies irritates the skin, eventually causing a rash. Although itchy bumps due to scabies can occur anywhere on the hand, they generally appear in between fingers and inner wrist. The tiny red bumps in scabies never appear in patches but form small curling lines (tracks) on the affected region of the body. These tracks that develop into small blisters are the sites where the scabies have burrowed the skin.
Treatment:
Anti-scabies agents such as Elimite (permethrin 5%) and benzyl benzoate that are available in the form of creams and lotions are often used to treat this skin problem. Use of calamine lotion and oral antihistamines may also provide relief from the intense itchy sensation.
Points to Remember
- Avoid scratching the affected skin as it will cause further irritation and lengthen the healing process. It is also important to avoid squeezing or popping the small bumps as this can actually make matters worse and lead to scarring.
- People suffering from itchy bumps need to stay away from soaps that contain harsh ingredients. Washing the hands with mild soaps such as Pears is essential to manage this skin problem effectively.
- Avoid over exposure to the sun as it can also exacerbate this skin problem. Follow a healthy diet and do not forget to drink plenty of water.
- One can also use cleansers that are known to nourish the skin. Application of Vaseline petroleum jelly can also relieve itching.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
