Chapped hands: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Get emergency help if hand symptoms begin with trouble breathing, faintness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat.

   These may be signs of a severe allergic reaction rather than ordinary chapping.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day medical advice if you develop spreading redness, increasing warmth or swelling, pus, worsening pain, red streaks, or fever.

   These changes can occur with a skin infection, especially around an open crack.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine appointment if the chapping does not improve with consistent skin protection and moisturizing, keeps returning, or interferes with sleep, work, or daily tasks.

   You should also arrange an assessment for deep or repeatedly bleeding cracks, persistent blisters, or a rash that spreads beyond your hands.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Chapped hands. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.