What Causes Severely Itchy And Swollen Fingers?

Posted on Thu, 1 Oct 2015

Question: I have a problem with my fingers that will itch severely, and swell up . Usually it is the ring finger on my left hand. But today I woke up with it on the pointer finger on my left hand. It itches, and burns and swells up horribly. I also notice a little blister on the finger. It is very tiny. It stays swollen for most of the day, and then the next day, it starts a peeling process. I do notice that stress seems to bring this on. It can also effect my toes at times. It is so hard to diagnose, and I have been given tons of reasons why this happens. I swear it is some type of autoimmune disease.

Answered by Dr. Albana Sejdini (56 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
A photo of the affected fingers is needed;possible fungal infection...

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I understand your concerns.

Before determining it is an autoimmune disease (which I sincerely do not think it), I need to have a look at your fingers with related skin changes.

Next, from what you are describing and taking into account that it involves your toes too; that makes me think over a possible fungal infection of the skin.

Allergy pills and anti-itching medications locally cannot help alone.

I would advise to run a microscopical examination of your skin scrappings on the affected area (with 10% KOH) to determine/exclude a fungal infection.

If it is confirmed, then, you should :
- wash your hands and feet with warm water and soap
- rinse thoroughly and dry well
- apply gentian violet solution locally
- let it dry
- then, apply a mixture of an antifungal cream locally (containing miconazole or terbinafin mixed with hydrocortisone)

Hope it was of help!
Dr.Albana

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar