What Causes Burning Hands And How Can You Treat It?

How many times a day do you use your hands? From washing dishes to showering, gaming to lifting boxes, typing on a laptop to writing with pen and paper, our hands are essential. But when pain strikes, even simple tasks can feel impossible. One of the most alarming complaints is a burning sensation in hands. You might ask yourself, “Why is my hand burning all of a sudden?” or “My hands feel like they are on fire at night—how can I stop it?” Understanding what’s behind that sudden heat and tingling is the first step toward relief.

What Can Cause a Burning Sensation in Your Hands?

A burning sensation in hands can arise from various sources—nerve damage, skin irritation, or underlying health conditions. Pinpointing the cause is crucial to learning how to stop burning sensation in hands and returning to daily activities.

Neuropathy

Chronic nerve damage, such as diabetic neuropathy, frequently leads to persistent burning and tingling. High blood sugar injures nerve endings, causing sensations as if your hands are aflame. Proper diabetes management and medications can help reduce these uncomfortable feelings.

Trauma or Crush injury to a finger tip

A crush injury to the fingertip can damage tiny nerve endings, leading to hypersensitivity that feels like heat on the skin. Gentle desensitization techniques and topical treatments can support healing and ease the burning.

Sunburn or other burns

If you skip sunscreen on your hands, a day in the sun can leave them red and burning. Since we use our hands constantly, that sensation may feel worse and behave like they are on fire at night. Applying cool compresses and aloe vera gel offers relief, but if the burning persists beyond a few days, consult a medical professional.

Insect Bites and Stings

A single insect bite or sting can trigger localized burning, redness, and swelling. Mild cases respond well to over-the-counter anti-itch creams and cold packs. However, if the area spreads or you experience systemic symptoms, seek prompt medical care.

Contact with Irritating Plants

Plants like poison ivy, oak, and nettles can cause delayed burning and itching after contact. Always wash your hands thoroughly after outdoor activities and apply topical corticosteroids if a rash develops.

Allergic Reactions to Household Products

Harsh soaps, bleach, and detergents can strip the skin’s protective barrier, leading to chronic dryness and burning sensation. To prevent this, wear protective gloves, use gentle cleansers, and moisturize hands immediately after washing.

Stress, Anxiety, and Skin Conditions

Emotional stress and anxiety can manifest physically as burning or tingling in the hands. Skin conditions like eczema and chronic dry skin also cause redness and burning. Addressing stress through relaxation techniques and using prescribed topical creams can provide relief.

Rare Neurological and Vascular Disorders

Conditions like erythromelalgia or palmar erythema produce intense burning and redness, often worsened by heat. These require specialist evaluation, and treatments may include cooling strategies or medications to improve blood flow.

Getting Treatment for Your Burning Hands

If you’ve ever wondered why is my hand burning all of a sudden, early evaluation is essential. A proper diagnosis leads to targeted treatment—whether that’s medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes—to help you learn how to stop burning sensation in hands. Contact Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas to schedule an evaluation and receive a personalized care plan. Call (713) 686-7166 to book your appointment today.