A Cluster of Red Bumps on the Hand

You may develop a cluster of red bumps on your hand if you have dyshidrosis, which is also known as dyshidrotic eczema. This is a condition that may affect the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet. You may develop small, fluid-filled blisters on these areas that redden with inflammation. These blisters may last for approximately three weeks.

Symptoms

Dyshidrosis begins with dermatitis on the palms of your hands, bottom of your feet or both. Dermatitis may occur with reddened, swollen and itchy skin. Dyshidrosis may start out as small, itchy bumps that gradually progress into a rash of fluid-filled blisters. These blisters may cause intense itching and causes cracks or fissures on the skin of your fingers. Large blisters may become especially painful.

Causes

The precise cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown, notes MedlinePlus. Dyshidrosis may be associated with allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever, and you may experience seasonal breakouts if you have allergies. Dyshidrosis may be associated with other skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis.

Risk Factors

Women are more likely to experience dyshidrosis than men, and you may be more likely to develop the condition if you are under stress. Exposure to metal salts such as chromium, cobalt and nickel found in cement or through mechanical work may increase your risk for developing dyshidrosis. Seasonal allergies can increase your risk for developing the condition. Exposing your skin to moisture, water or wet substances may also trigger dyshidrosis.

At-Home Treatment

Do not scratch the blisters. Avoid frequent bathing, hand washing and irritating substances like perfumed lotions or dish washing soap. These activities and substances can make the itching worse. You can apply a wet or cold compress to your hands to help alleviate itching, increase the effectiveness of the topical creams and suppress blisters. Moisturize your hands with hand cream after washing your hands.

Drug Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe strong corticosteroid topical creams to help speed up your recovery and improve the appearance of blisters. Corticosteroid cream can also treat cracks and fissures that may occur after your blisters dry up. Anti-itching medications called anti-pruritics or antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or loratadine can help alleviate itching. Your doctor may recommend a form of ultraviolet light therapy to treat dyshidrosis. Psoralen plus ultraviolet therapy combines ultraviolet light with medications that help make your skin more receptive to the effects of ultraviolet light.