According to superstition itchy palms are said to foretell that someone would give or receive money. But, in actuality, there are valid medical reasons why someone’s palms could begin to itch.
Often, common skin disorders like eczema cause itchy palms. However, they can also be an indication of more serious underlying problems, such as liver disease. This blog will unravel the mystery of itchy palms, exploring its causes, meanings, and potential treatments.
Understanding the Meaning of Itchy Palms
Palm itching or palm pruritus, as it is medically described, is the itching that can make an individual uncomfortable and sometimes frustrated. Unlike other skin conditions associated with visible rashes or lesions, itchy palms may manifest without any visible signs of irritation. In most cases, it is the lack of visible symptoms that further increases misconceptions about its causes and treatment.
Itchy Palm Causes
Itching, no matter where it happens, can be bothersome. Since it can hamper regular chores, it can cause irritation in the hands. Some of the common itchy palm causes are listed below:
- Eczema on the Hands
This non-communicable disease can lead to dryness, cracking, blistering, discoloured skin, and itchy palms. Small, irritating blisters are a defining feature of dyshidrotic eczema, a subtype of hand eczema that primarily affects the hands and, occasionally, the feet. Those who work in occupations where their hands are frequently exposed to harsh chemicals or excessive dampness are more likely to develop hand eczema.
- Allergic Reactions
Occasionally, repeated exposure to a chemical or irritant can cause itchy hands, which can lead to an allergic reaction. We refer to this as contact dermatitis. An allergic reaction may take 2-4 days after coming into touch with an allergen.
- Diabetes
Elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to itchy, dry skin. This itchy skin may show up with or without red or flesh-coloured pimples on the palms and other body parts.
- Reactions to Medication
Occasionally, something a person has eaten causes itching palms instead of something their hands have come into touch with. Itching can result from the body’s histamine reactions when someone has a mild allergic reaction to an unfamiliar medication. In these situations, histamines tend to concentrate in greater amounts in the hands and feet, which is why the palms may get irritable.
A person should speak with their doctor before stopping a prescription medication.
- Nerve Conditions
Occasionally, illnesses like diabetes that cause damage to the hand’s nerves might result in itching palms. Other hand nerve dysfunctions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can lead to similar consequences. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterised by discomfort, numbness, paralysis, and itching in the hands due to strain on the median nerve.
- Dry Skin
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itchy hands. Because the skin of the palms lacks the presence of oil glands, it is more vulnerable to dryness and irritation, particularly in the winter or in dry locations.
- Skin Damage
Your hands’ delicate skin may become irritated by certain chemicals or substances. Additionally, brushing or scrubbing can irritate your skin. Itching, peeling, and dryness may result from this.
Itchy Palms at Night
Palm itch at night can be inconvenient and annoying, leading to restlessness. A few factors can explain the itching of palms during the night, such as changes in the body temperature, being more sensitive to the allergens in the bed, a particular type of sleepwear or increased levels of stress and anxiety occurring at night.
Itchy Palms Treatment
The underlying reason for itchy palms will determine the course of treatment. Some of the suggested treatments are:
- A Cool, Wet Towel
Itching can be reduced by applying a cool, moist cloth to the palms for five to ten minutes. Another useful tool could be an ice pack.
- Topical Steroids
During a flare-up, corticosteroids help lessen palm redness and itching. These are available for purchase over the counter or with a prescription. However, steroid cream usage should be avoided as much as possible since it can thin the skin.
- Moisturise Often
Frequently moisturising might assist in lessening irritation. After bathing or when the hands feel extremely dry, moisturising may be especially important if eczema is the cause of the itching.
- Ultraviolet Light Therapy
UV light therapy may help people with severe irritation or hand eczema. Reducing symptoms might be possible by exposing the hands to a special light that releases ultraviolet-A rays.
Conclusion
Itchy palms are a common and occasionally bothersome dermatological symptom many people encounter, even though they are sometimes considered a simple superstition. It is possible to figure out the meaning and treatment possibilities of itchy palms and approach the condition with a more proactive and knowledgeable attitude by being aware of its numerous causes.
