Fed up with skin fissures on your fingers that don’t disappear? You’re not alone! This irritating problem is very common. But don’t worry. This article will give you some helpful tips to heal these skin fissures on your fingers quickly and effectively. Keep reading to find out what to do.
Introduction
Skin fissures in the fingers, also known as cracks in the fingertips, can cause pain and physical discomfort. These cracks are usually due to dryness or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Home remedies and medication prescribed by a doctor can treat them. The healing time depends on the severity of the crack.
Prevention is key when it comes to skin fissures. Taking precautions and making lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing them. To get your hands back into shape, this article provides an overview of preventive measures and methods to treat existing cracks.
Causes of Skin Fissures in Fingers
Finger skin fissures are a common adult issue, especially for those who do manual labor. They can range from shallow and barely visible, to deep and painful. Causes include dryness, harsh chemicals/soaps, infection, contact dermatitis due to irritants, severe eczema or psoriasis.
The good news? Most heal on their own within a few days, if managed right. Keep them moisturized with petroleum-based ointment and wear gloves when possible. If the problem persists beyond one week or is frequent, see a doctor for testing and advice.
Symptoms of Skin Fissures in Fingers
Skin fissures in the fingers often show signs of cracking or splitting. They start small, but can worsen if the area stays dry and brittle. Fissures can be a few millimeters to one centimeter long, often running up the finger.
Symptoms: redness, itchiness, inflammation, tenderness, and pain when pressure is applied.
Signs of infection? Swelling, warmth, drainage, and pus formation near the skin split.
Diagnosis of Skin Fissures in Fingers
Accurate diagnosis of skin fissures in fingers is vital to decide the right treatment plan. Your doctor will look at your symptoms, do a physical exam, and ask about your medical history. They may also do blood or urine tests, or imaging studies to find the cause.
After they have got the correct diagnosis, they will make a plan just for you. Healing of finger skin fissures can take weeks or even months, and you may need help along the way:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for treating the fissures.
- Keep your hands clean and dry.
- Apply a moisturizing cream or ointment to your hands.
- Wear gloves when doing any activities that could irritate your skin.
- Take breaks from activities that involve repetitive hand movements.
- Avoid harsh soaps and detergents.
Treatment of Skin Fissures in Fingers
Skin fissures often form on fingers and hands due to dryness. These can be deep and painful, making tasks like opening jars hard. Treatment can help improve this condition or even heal it completely.
First, keep your hands moisturized. Apply thick water-based moisturizers, like petroleum jelly or hand cream. Wear gloves or socks overnight to hold in moisture and stop scratching in sleep. Avoid hot baths, showers, and harsh soaps. Soak hands in lukewarm water instead.
If homecare isn’t enough, medical treatments may be needed. A doctor may prescribe topical steroids, antibiotics, or antifungals. These depend on the cause of the fissure. Calcium supplements may help strengthen thinning nails or bony prominences, if there’s a nutritional deficiency.
- With care, this condition is often resolved within two weeks. Severe cases may take longer.
- Consult a qualified health professional if redness, tenderness, or discoloration occur. This can help prevent infection or medical complications.
Home Remedies for Skin Fissures in Fingers
Finger skin fissures can take several weeks to heal. They may need medical attention if they get infected. Home remedies can help soothe and heal the fissures.
- A warm towel is a moist heat source that works on the affected area. This will ease pain and soften dry skin.
- Petroleum jelly or glycerin-based cream can keep moisture in the crack.
- Avoid harsh soaps, detergents and other irritants to reduce irritation levels. Use a soap specifically for sensitive skin when washing hands.
If the cracks become painful or show infection signs, seek professional medical help. Do not attempt to cut away cuts or splinters in your finger. This increases chances of infection and could damage tissue beneath the skin.
Prevention of Skin Fissures in Fingers
To prevent skin fissures in the fingers, take steps to reduce the risk:
- Moisturize regularly and keep your hands away from water.
- Wear gloves when handling harsh chemicals.
- Avoid smoking, as it may cause poor circulation and low oxygen levels in the skin.
Be aware of any skin changes. If severe cracking occurs, get medical help from a doctor or dermatologist. Hydrating your hands with a moisturizer will help heal any skin fissures.
Conclusion
Skin fissures in fingers can take 3 to 6 weeks to heal, depending on how severe they are. For a successful healing process, one should keep their hands clean, moisturize, and avoid harsh chemicals/soaps.
To make sure you are managing the condition properly, consulting a healthcare professional is advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does it take for skin fissures to heal?
A1. It generally takes 4-6 weeks for skin fissures to heal, depending on the severity of the condition.
Q2. What are some treatments for skin fissures?
A2. Keeping the affected area clean and dry, avoiding further skin damage, and using moisturizers or prescribed topical creams can help treat skin fissures.
Q3. Are there any home remedies that can help treat skin fissures?
A3. Home remedies such as applying coconut oil or aloe vera gel on the affected area, soaking the area in warm water, and applying honey can help treat skin fissures.
