Q Why does dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx), which causes small blisters on the hands and feet, occur?
A Dyshidrotic eczema is a condition in which transparent, multiple small vesicles suddenly appear around sweat glands on the palms and soles, with stress, excessive sweating, and contact with metals (nickel) being the main triggers. In Korean medicine, it is understood that blisters occur when heart fire (心火) becomes stagnant and damp-heat (濕熱) concentrates in the hands and feet. Since it tends to recur frequently and become chronic, systematic management from the early stages is important.
Detailed Answer
Dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx) is a condition in which transparent small vesicles suddenly appear concentrated on the lateral surfaces of the palms and soles. The exact cause has not been fully elucidated, but stress, hyperhidrosis, metal allergies such as nickel, and atopic constitution interact in complex ways. When the vesicles rupture, they are accompanied by discharge and severe itching, and progress to peeling after drying.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In physiognomy medicine, when heart fire (心火) cannot descend to the lower energizer and becomes stagnant, damp-heat concentrates at the extremities—the hands and feet—forming blisters. Constitutions like the gallbladder type, which have abundant qi and tend toward dryness and heat, present with small, firm blisters and intense itching, while constitutions like the bladder type, which have abundant dampness, tend to have larger blisters with more discharge. Treatment combines Hwangnyeon Haedok-tang and Sasim-tang-type heat-clearing and damp-resolving formulas with acupuncture at Hegu (合谷) and Neiguan (內關) to reduce heart fire and expel damp-heat.
Related FAQs
-
Q
I have had dyshidrosis for 20 years — can it still improve with Korean medicine at my age?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I have hyperhidrosis and also anxiety / panic disorder. Can they be treated together?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
My melasma appeared together with irregular periods. Are they connected?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
What daily management is needed to prevent dyshidrotic eczema from recurring?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Are there daily habits that can help manage melasma and age spots?
#Lifestyle Management