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The findings reveal how people living with CHE experience a high burden of itch and pain, with symptoms such as dry, sore, burning, and cracked skin affecting their daily lives. Many participants likened their experience of the condition with the following sentiment from one of the respondents:
It feels like my hands are constantly burning or itchy. I can feel it all the time. It also feels like I can’t do much with them in fear I’ll make it worse.
It is clear from the study that the impact of CHE goes beyond the physical symptoms, with the visibility of the condition leading to an emotional toll. Over 50% of the respondents’ report feelings of anxiety, embarrassment or anger due to their condition.
Makes me so insecure and self-conscious, as if people think I have a disease or I’m disgusting. I feel ashamed.
Despite the majority of respondents also experiencing eczema on other parts of their body, the vast majority (94%) agree to some extent, that having eczema on their hands is harder than the rest of the body. This is because of the need to constantly use their hands, with 75% agreeing strongly.
Given these results, it is disappointing to see that only 14% of those surveyed had been asked about the emotional impact of their CHE by healthcare professionals. This lack of communication underscores the need for greater education among healthcare providers regarding the emotional toll of allergies and skin conditions.
One of the most concerning findings for Allergy UK is that individuals often delay seeking help for their CHE for a substantial length of time: respondents experienced symptoms for a median of 8 years before seeking healthcare support. Believing that their symptoms were severe enough or not wanting to make a fuss was cited as a reason which contributed to this delay in seeking help.
Simone Miles, CEO at Allergy UK
It’s vital those affected by CHE and other skin conditions seek the support and treatment they need. No one should be suffering in silence. This is why Allergy UK is calling for the improvement of allergy services across the UK. We need greater provision of services at primary care levels – from GPs being better equipped to recognise symptoms to providing timely and effective patient pathways. Early intervention and adequate management support are essential to improving the quality of life for those who reach out for support when they need it most.
These findings reinforce the pressing need for increased awareness and support for individuals living with CHE. They emphasise the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition. Greater education for healthcare professionals and initiatives to encourage early access to healthcare support can play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for those affected by CHE.
Reference: LEO Pharma DOF DERM-001 June 2024