Do you often experience itchiness in your palms, affecting your daily activities and quality of life? The sensation of itching can vary from mild discomfort to persistent irritation. It can be caused due to underlying health conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Hence, it becomes important to understand the causes to get the necessary treatment. In this article, we list the causes of itchy palms and how you can treat and prevent it.
Causes of Itchy Palms
- Dry Skin: Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itchy palms. This is due to the insufficient moisture in the skin which leads to irritation and itching.
- Skin Conditions: Skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis can cause itching and inflammation, affecting the palms as well. According to the National Eczema Association, approximately one out of every ten individuals in the United States suffers from hand eczema.
- Allergies: Contact with allergens, such as certain chemicals, soaps, cosmetics, or even specific foods can trigger allergic reactions, resulting in itchy palms.
- Infections: Fungal infections like athlete's foot or yeast infections can spread to the palms, leading to itchiness.
- Nerve Disorders: Conditions affecting the nerves, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can cause itching sensations in the palms.
- Internal Disorders: Certain internal health issues like liver disease, kidney problems, or thyroid disorders can manifest as itching in the palms.
Treatment Options for Itchy Palms
Here are some treatment options that can help you manage your condition:
- Moisturising: Keeping the skin well-hydrated with moisturisers can alleviate itching caused by dryness
- Avoiding Allergens: Identifying and avoiding potential allergens can help prevent allergic reactions and subsequent itching
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams can provide relief from itching and inflammation caused by allergic reactions or skin conditions.
- Prescription Medications: In cases of severe itching due to underlying skin disorders, dermatologists may prescribe stronger medications
- Antifungal Medications: Antifungal creams and oral medications may be prescribed if the itching is caused by fungal infections
- Nerve Treatments: For itching related to nerve disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome, treatments aimed at relieving pressure on the affected nerves, such as splinting or surgery, may be recommended
- Addressing Underlying Health Issues: Treating underlying health conditions like liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or diabetes can help alleviate itching in the palms associated with these conditions.
Preventive Measures for Itchy Palms
Follow these measures to avoid itchy palms:
- Maintain Proper Hygiene: Regularly washing hands with mild soap and water can help prevent infections and minimise the risk of itchy palms
- Use Gloves: Wear gloves when handling chemicals or working with materials that can irritate the skin and cause contact dermatitis.
- Avoid Scratching: Although it may provide temporary relief, scratching can worsen itching and lead to skin damage. Instead, gently pat or moisturise the affected area to soothe the itch.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain skin hydration, reducing the likelihood of dry, itchy palms.
- Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate itching sensations. Engaging in stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help alleviate stress-related itching.
- Follow a Balanced Diet: Consuming a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids supports overall skin health and reduces the risk of skin conditions that cause itching
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you face any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]
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