cracked and bleeding hands

[Angelwings999]

My dads hands are so cracked that he has no qaulity of life anymore. The bleed and he is unbearable pain. He cant even hold a knife and fork or open a can of juice. He is 58 and a business manager so no contact with chemicals etc. He saw a dermatologist who said he had psoriasis, He prescribed some serious meds but the have made it worse, and has developed a rash all over his body which itches. He has to have his blood taken every week as these other pills are so strong. They are suggesting he go on a different type but he may need to be admitted to hospital as they cause liver failure and heart attacks. Please can anyone advise me of anything which may help. My dad used to be so sociable and active, he can no longer play golf and can not go out for meals as he cant cut his food without his hands splitting open. Any help please would be appreciated.

[Angelwings999]

Thanks so much for all your speedy replies. He has tried every cream under the sun, we even sourced some from Australia that we though may help but nothing. He is on new tablets as the last ones like you said caused an allergic
reaction. He has also been wearing the gloves. He only has a short shower, No baths these days. He has an appointment with a different dermatologist in a couple of weeks. Fingers crossed for him. Every day brings him so much pain I am just desperate to find a cure for this......thanks once again.x  

[Jumong]

Did the dermatologist also prescribe hydrocortisone? If not, your dad should try it, and should try to prevent the skin from becoming dry. Avoid harsh soap or detergents. Turn off the air conditioner. Wear protective gloves. etc.
And look into what has caused that rash. It might be a bacterial or fungal infection due to the cracked skin.

[tschock]

Make sure he avoids water like the plague! Water will make it worse.
Drinking the water is better than bathing in it.

Sounds like he's having an allergic reaction to the medication.
Did he try any of the available creams instead of the pills?
The creams are much safer, and generally work better.
Is it possible for him to see a different physician for a second opinion?