The sensation of burning in the hands, medically known as paresthesia or neuropathic pain, is a common symptom. This discomfort often arises from direct irritation of the skin’s surface or a dysfunction within the nerves that transmit sensation. Understanding the source is the first step toward finding relief. This guide provides practical steps to manage the discomfort and outlines when a professional medical evaluation is necessary.
Immediate First Aid for Burning Hands
The most immediate step for acute burning is to neutralize the source of irritation and cool the affected area. Start by gently washing the hands with mild soap and lukewarm water for several minutes to remove any potential chemical residue or irritants. Removing rings, bracelets, and other tight items quickly is important, especially if there is visible swelling, as the hands can swell rapidly.
Applying a cool compress or soaking the hands in cool, running water for 10 to 20 minutes helps to draw heat away from the tissues and soothe nerve endings. Never use ice or extremely cold water directly on the skin, as this can cause tissue damage. For minor thermal burns or inflammation, apply a soothing agent like aloe vera gel to reduce the heat and provide a protective barrier.
If the burning is accompanied by throbbing pain and appears localized, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage discomfort and reduce inflammation. These medications work by blocking the body’s production of chemical messengers that cause pain and swelling. If swelling is present, elevating the hands above heart level can help reduce fluid accumulation and alleviate pressure.
Identifying Common Non-Serious Causes
Many instances of burning hands are temporary and caused by localized issues treatable at home. One frequent culprit is contact dermatitis, an inflammatory reaction that occurs after the skin touches an irritating substance. This can be triggered by harsh cleaning chemicals, strong soaps, or plant irritants like poison ivy, stripping the skin’s natural protective barrier.
Severe dryness (xerosis) can cause the skin to crack and become inflamed, leading to a stinging or burning sensation, particularly during cold weather. Applying thick, emollient moisturizers frequently helps to restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture. For mild contact dermatitis, a thin layer of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may reduce redness and burning by calming the localized immune response.
Minor thermal injuries, such as a mild kitchen burn or a sunburn, are common causes of acute burning that respond well to home care. For sun-exposed skin, applying a pure aloe vera product provides cooling relief and hydration. Friction burns from activities like rope handling can result in localized heat and skin irritation, which should be cooled and kept clean to prevent infection.
When Medical Diagnosis is Necessary
While many cases of burning hands are minor, persistent or widespread symptoms may signal a more serious condition requiring professional medical attention. A burning sensation that lasts for more than a few days, worsens, or recurs frequently should be evaluated. This persistence can be a sign of peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Neuropathy often presents with a characteristic “stocking-glove” pattern, where burning, tingling, and numbness begin in the feet and progress upward before affecting the hands. Diabetes is a common cause, as high blood sugar can damage nerve fibers over time. Other neurological causes include carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to burning and tingling primarily in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
Immediate medical consultation is warranted if the burning is accompanied by signs of infection, such as pus, spreading redness, warmth, or a fever. Severe chemical or thermal burns that cause blistering larger than a small coin, deep skin damage with a white or charred appearance, or burns that involve the entire hand require urgent professional care. Any new weakness, loss of coordination, or significant change in sensation spreading beyond the hands are serious indicators that must be addressed quickly.