What causes itchy palms with small bumps?

Generally, itchy palms with small bumps may be caused by environmental factors, excessive friction, tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hands), contact dermatitis, or eczema. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Environmental Factors

Living or working for prolonged periods in hot and humid environments may increase sweating on the palms, causing the skin to remain moist for extended periods. This can promote bacterial or fungal growth, leading to itching and small bumps. It is advisable to avoid staying in high-temperature environments for long durations.

2. Excessive Friction

Engaging in prolonged manual labor or frequent use of hand tools may cause excessive friction on the palms, triggering a localized inflammatory response that results in small bumps accompanied by itching. Wearing gloves during daily work can help protect the hands.

3. Tinea Manuum (Hand Fungus)

Tinea manuum is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes invading the skin of the palms. The fungal infection induces an inflammatory reaction, resulting in the symptoms described. It may also be accompanied by dryness and skin fissures. Treatment should be guided by a physician using medications such as itraconazole capsules, bifonazole cream, or miconazole nitrate cream.

4. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin of the hands comes into contact with certain irritants or allergens. These substances can damage the skin’s barrier function, provoke an inflammatory response, and lead to itchy palms with small bumps. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and pain. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as loratadine tablets, compound chlorphenamine maleate tablets, or hydrocortisone tablets.

5. Eczema

Eczema may be triggered by genetic factors, chronic infections, food allergies, and other causes. It leads to skin inflammation, resulting in symmetrical red patches, papules, or vesicle-like bumps on the palms, along with itching. The condition may also present with rough, thickened skin. Treatment under medical guidance may include desonide cream, fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, or erythromycin ointment.

To prevent the occurrence of itchy palms and small bumps, it is important to keep the palms clean and dry, avoid prolonged exposure to irritating environments, minimize hand friction, and pay attention to whether substances contacted might trigger allergic reactions.