14 Risk Factors for Developing Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema describes a condition where the skin develops small blisters, about the size of a pinhead. The blisters typically increase in size as the affected person begins to scratch the affected area. 

In most cases of dyshidrotic eczema, the blisters fade after two or three weeks, and the blisters may disappear at the two-week mark, only to recur in the following week. Scratching the dyshidrotic blisters causes them to break, and they weep yellowish pus that crusts as it dries.

After the skin heals from the blisters, it remains tight and scaly for a few weeks afterward. Affected individuals should consider moisturizing the skin to help it recover. Doctors are at a loss to explain the exact reason for the onset of the condition, but many medical practitioners think that it may be an autoimmune disorder. 

The following eight risk factors may increase your chances of developing dyshidrotic eczema.

1.    Stress and Anxiety

People who experience high levels of stress or anxiety are at a higher risk of developing dyshidrotic eczema. When we get stressed, the brain calls for the release of cortisol. This hormone imitates the “fight-or-flight” response, which helps the affected individual make decisions in a crisis.

In the times of our ancient ancestors, the fight-or-flight response occurred when predators are nearby, providing adrenaline that allows the person to choose between fighting or running. However, in today’s modern society, we rarely encounter these types of threats.

 Some people that are in a constant state of anxiety may find that their cortisol levels are out of balance, causing them to have an emotional breakdown.

Studies show that people who are undergoing extreme stress levels are more likely to develop symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema. The blisters may also hand around for longer than usual or reoccur after the first batch of blisters start to fade.