What causes small, itchy bumps on the hands, and what should I do about them?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, small, itchy bumps on the hands may be caused by contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema, tinea manuum (hand fungus), scabies, or other conditions, and appropriate management depends on the specific situation. When small bumps appear on the hands accompanied by itching, scratching should be avoided to prevent skin damage, secondary infection, and worsening of the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical consultation is recommended to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.

Generally, small itchy bumps on the hands may be caused by contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, eczema, tinea manuum (hand fungus), scabies, and other conditions, and require different treatments depending on the specific situation.

1. Contact Dermatitis: This condition occurs as an inflammatory reaction at the site of contact or even other areas after the skin comes into contact with exogenous substances. It can lead to red patches, pimples, and other bumps on the hands accompanied by itching. It is recommended to avoid contact with irritants and use medications such as prednisone acetate tablets or hydrocortisone cream under a doctor's guidance.

2. Dyshidrotic Eczema: Excessive sweat gland secretion in the hands can cause sweat to accumulate on the skin surface, potentially damaging the skin's stratum corneum and weakening its barrier function, resulting in itchy bumps on the hands. It is recommended to use medications such as halometasone cream or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets under a doctor's guidance.

3. Eczema: When the skin perspires easily and sweat cannot evaporate effectively, skin barrier function may be compromised, leading to eczema and the appearance of itchy bumps on the hands. It is recommended to use medications such as azithromycin dispersible tablets or dexamethasone cream under a doctor's guidance.

4. Tinea Manuum (Hand Fungus): Hand fungus is primarily caused by a fungal infection of the dermatophytes. Patients typically experience bumps and itching on the hands. It is recommended to use medications such as ketoconazole cream under a doctor's guidance.

5. Scabies: Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites burrowing into the epidermis of the human skin. The mites' movement within the skin can trigger immune responses, leading to bumps on areas such as the hands, often accompanied by intense itching. It is recommended to use medications such as sulfur borax cream or salicylic acid ointment under a doctor's guidance.

When experiencing small bumps and itching on the hands, avoid scratching to prevent breaking the skin, which could lead to infection and worsen the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.