Eczema does not have a cure yet. All one can do about this skin condition is suppress the symptoms. These are the following symptoms of eczema: Itchiness, inflamed red marks on skin, thickening of affected areas, and scaling. These are the common symptoms that are most regularly seen in patients. As you read every word of this article, you will discover information on the different uses of Corticosteroids for eczema skin symptoms
Also, they do vary from patient to patient, as well as location on the body. The best way to treat eczema is to know what causes it and to stay away from triggers. For mild symptoms a simple lotion and compress will do the job of protecting the area and easing the itch. Once symptoms surpass being “mild” then you’ll need much more than that. Corticosteroid (steroid-based) creams or lotions may have to be used for really bad cases. These are very widely used, doctor prescribed or over-the-counter forms are available. Here is what corticosteroids are: It is close to a natural hormone that the body produces, crucial for reducing inflammation.
Corticosteroids as a form of treatment has been dated back as early as 1955 specifically for treating eczema, along with other inflammatory skin conditions. Corticosteroid Variations that are used to treat eczema come in different forms. Topical; which include foams, creams, lotions, and ointments. They are used to treat eczema skin inflammations that are ranging from light to moderate. Oral or injected corticosteroids may be prescribed by a doctor for intense cases. Keep in mind, consideration for this is taken very seriously and is used as a last resort. Pregnant women that have eczema should not use this.
It has been found that, its use can cause the fetus to develop cleft palate and/or cleft lip.
Corticosteroid Side Effect Potentials
There are many people that worry about using or over using this medication.
As long as the patient is working with a very knowledgeable doctor, who has prescribed it to other patients with successful outcomes, there is very little to worry about. But , just like with any drug, it is understandable to be concerned about side effects. Studies have found that side effects will vary and depend upon the potency and dosage of corticosteroid that is used. Patients should also take into account how it is taken; injected, orally, or topically. Other things like age, how long treatment has been administered, and where on the body the eczema skin symptoms resides will also determine specific side effects.
Actual Side Effects
High and prolonged dosages of topically applied corticosteroid near the eyes can have been known to cause cataract.
Topical use of corticosteroids around the eye (topically and systemically) can also cause glaucoma, in some instances
Oral ingestion of corticosteroids has also been found to cause the patient to get nauseated and vomiting may occur.
Taking food with the medication may lessen the impact of, or eliminate side effects.
Female patients that have prolonged exposure may also run the risk of osteoporosis, or decreased bone density.
Topical corticosteroids can also cause other skin conditions like; dilated blood vessels, infections, acne, stretch marks, and different kinds of rashes.
So as with ANY type of drug treatment, consult your doctor before use, this is absolutely crucial to success. His or her close supervision will help keep you safe and side effect free.