Itchy, Swollen Hands and Feet: What to Know

Contact Dermatitis may cause itchy, red, swollen skin after exposure to soap, gloves, footwear, metals, or cleaning products. Dyshidrotic Eczema can produce intensely itchy small blisters on the palms, sides of fingers, or soles. Athlete's Foot often affects the spaces between toes with scaling, cracking, or itch, and can spread to nearby skin. Swelling in both hands and feet, especially without a rash, can also have causes outside the skin.

Remove any new product or tight accessory, rinse exposed skin gently, and use a cool compress. Keep feet dry, change damp socks, avoid sharing towels, and do not scratch open areas. Do not use a steroid or antifungal cream on an uncertain rash without advice; a clinician may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment when a fungal infection fits the examination. Note when swelling began, whether one or both sides are involved, and any new foods, medicines, footwear, or exposures.

Get emergency help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing, faintness, or rapidly spreading hives. Seek prompt assessment for one-sided painful swelling, hot red skin, pus, fever, severe pain, numbness, blue or pale fingers or toes, or difficulty walking. Arrange a routine review if symptoms persist, recur, disturb sleep, or do not improve after removing a suspected irritant.

Does the rash look fungal, eczematous, allergic, or infected? Could a new product, medicine, or footwear be responsible? Do I need a skin scraping or other test? Which treatment is safe for my hands and feet?