Hand condition requires diagnosis

February 6, 2012 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My hands are dry and cracking, like my skin is flaking. It is very painful. What can I do and what is it?

DEAR READER: Unfortunately, without being able to see your hands, I cannot determine what the possible cause may be. My first thought was some form of eczema. However, closely behind that was psoriasis, infection, allergic reaction, and more.

I recommend you make an appointment with your doctor who can examine you and order testing or refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist). Appropriate treatment cannot begin until the cause has been determined.
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Eczema can be difficult to treat

May 25, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I developed eczema on my hands about six months ago, at the age of 46. It seems to be getting worse every week, with sores and my skin splitting. It hurts so badly that I feel I would be better off cutting my hands off. I have tried three different prescription creams and oil, to no avail. Do you know of anything else that I can try? I would appreciate any help.

DEAR READER: Eczema is the itch that rashes. It typically starts with a patch of excessively dry skin that begins to itch. As you scratch it, it becomes red and inflamed.
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Visual exam needed for cause of skin rash

May 7, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I’m an 87-year-old woman with a circle about the size of a quarter on my right thigh, about four inches above my knee. All the skin around it is very smooth, but it is rough to the touch and appears to be flaking. Sometimes it is pale pink; other times it is an angry, dark pink. Occasionally, it itches. Neosporin and other creams don’t help. Can you?

DEAR READER: I don’t know without seeing it, but my first thought is eczema or psoriasis. My recommendation is that you see your primary-care physician or a dermatologist for a diagnosis. Once the lesion is examined, appropriate medication can be prescribed.

While you are waiting for your appointment, be sure to keep your skin moistened. Treat the area with a petroleum-based product. If you bathe in a tub instead of shower, add Epsom salts or bath oil to the water.

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Mother helped by Gott column

February 4, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I enjoy your column and was excited to read about the National Eczema Association. All three of my children suffer with this condition as well as with food allergies and asthma. Often, their attacks coincide.
My 5-year-old daughter suffers the worst and is often treated cruelly because of it by other children. I was so happy to find a Web site to keep current on new treatments and possibly a support group to help all of us with the emotional effects this malady causes.
Eczema may not be fatal, but it is real and bothersome. Thank you for sharing the information. [Read more...]

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