How to Manage Bleeding Hands?
During the winter months, I often experience extreme dryness in my hands that leads to cracks and bleeding. I've experimented with various remedies, including O'Keefe's, Vaseline, and corn huskers. I’ve also tried wet wrapping, where I apply Vaseline and cover my hands with socks or gauze, and a few steroid creams for eczema, which helped soothe some itchy patches but did little for the severe cracking and bleeding that is causing discomfort. Currently, I am prescribed budesonide and mesalamine (Apriso at the usual dosage) and am recovering from a Crohn's flare-up. I recently took prednisone and some gastrointestinal treatments (thankfully avoiding biologics for now), but I feel exhausted. My hands are becoming rough and sandpaper-like, and while I know it sounds dramatic, both mentally and physically, I need my body to ease up. Additionally, I’m dealing with an annoying ear boil and need to use ear drops; I frequently suffer from itchy ears that sometimes lead to these boils. I'm on a tight budget, especially after incurring significant expenses related to my flare-up. Is there anything I might have overlooked that doesn’t necessitate a doctor's visit? Alternatively, how can I prevent my hands from getting infected if washing them exacerbates the situation while my body recuperates? Thank you for your help. Profile: 27 years old, 5'4", approximately 100 lbs, with Crohn's and GERD, currently taking omeprazole at a dosage of 40 mg along with the medications mentioned above.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 2:30:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're seeking solutions for managing the dryness and cracks on your hands while also navigating your health conditions. This issue, particularly in winter months, can be quite uncomfortable. Here’s an approach you can consider that addresses your concerns.
Main Points:
- Moisturizing: Prioritize consistent, effective moisturizing to help heal your hands.
- Gentle Care Practices: Adjust your hand-washing routine to minimize further irritation.
- Protective Measures: Consider how to protect your hands, especially while they are healing.
Explanation:
Your extreme dryness and bleeding may be exacerbated by winter conditions, but it could also relate to the effects of medications or your underlying conditions like Crohn's disease. The methods you've tried show you're proactive, but moisturizing must be a consistent part of your regimen.
Next Steps:
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Choose a Rich Moisturizer: While you've used various products, consider switching to a thicker, fragrance-free cream specifically designed for severely dry skin (look for products with urea or glycerin) that stays on the skin longer. Try applying it right after washing your hands and before bed.
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Modify Hand-Washing:
- Try using lukewarm water instead of hot, as hot water can strip more oils from your skin.
- Use a gentle soap (like a moisturizing hand wash) and limit washing times. After washing, pat your hands dry instead of rubbing.
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Hand Protection:
- When outside in cold conditions, wear protective gloves to prevent further drying and cracking.
- If tasks (like washing dishes) contribute to irritation, consider rubber gloves to protect your hands.
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Monitor for Infections:
- To prevent infection, keep your hands clean but avoid excessive washing. Use hand sanitizer with moisturizers when soap and water aren't available.
- If you notice increased redness, warmth, or pus, these could be signs of infection, and you would need to seek medical attention.
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Manage Ear Boils:
- For your ears, avoid using cotton swabs that can irritate the skin. Instead, keep the area clean and dry. Consider applying a warm compress to the area twice daily to help soothe discomfort and perhaps support drainage if there's a boil.
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Follow a Routine: Implement a consistent routine for moisturizing multiple times a day, especially after activities that could dry them out. Monitor your cracks closely; if new symptoms develop or they fail to heal despite these measures, further assessment may be necessary.
By following these steps, you should see improvement in the condition of your hands while also maintaining overall hygiene. Remember to be gentle with yourself during this healing phase, as your body is working hard to recover. Let me know if you have more questions or need further information!
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