Dry hands? 4 tips for managing eczema

(NC) Do you have dry, itchy, painful hands? Living with chronic hand eczema (CHE) isn’t just physically taxing—the constant symptoms can take a significant toll on your self-esteem and overall mental health.

In fact, a recent survey reveals that more than half of Canadians living with the condition say it has negatively impacted them mentally and emotionally. For many, the condition disrupts daily activities and professional responsibilities, creating feelings of frustration and helplessness. Individuals often feel self-conscious about the appearance of their hands, leading to social withdrawal and isolation.

“CHE is frustrating because the simplest tasks—washing dishes, typing, playing with my kids—can be painful. The discomfort is a constant reminder that the things that you enjoy are difficult for you to do,” shares Liam Downey, a Canadian living with CHE.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help manage the condition and its psychological impacts. Here are some tips to try:

1. Consult a qualified health professional. Dermatologists and healthcare providers can offer personalized treatment plans and advice on managing CHE effectively.
2. Identify triggers and develop a skincare routine. Recognizing what exacerbates your symptoms and establishing a routine with regular moisturizing and topical therapies can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
3. Practice stress-relief techniques. Activities such as meditation, yoga and deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels, which may, in turn, alleviate some symptoms.
4. Seek professional mental health support. Consulting with a therapist or counsellor can also provide valuable emotional support and coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the mental health challenges of chronic hand eczema, don't hesitate to seek help. There are many resources and support systems available to assist in managing both the physical and emotional aspects of this condition.