Steroids and Eczema IV

At different times in an eczema sufferers' life the thought of using steroid treatments becomes very tempting. Sometimes there are flares of eczema that are so vigorous that a quick course of steroids become the best thing in your mind to treat the problem with. This article speaks of some of the ways how you can use steroids safely. The list is not exhausted. As a matter of fact, at this time I only speak of 6 ways that steroids are safely used. The aim is that if you ever have to use them at one point or another, you will know how to use them safely so that you do not run into difficulties from them.

Long term use

The majority of problems connected to steroid use come after too much steroids have been used for too long a period of time. The problems that come from steroids are usually not permanent, but they can cause nasty flash backs that recur again and again, when the eczema situation is not managed properly.

Not on the face

Steroids are not to be used on the face if it can be tolerated otherwise. If conditions are too uncomfortable only use a low dose steroid. The skin on the face is already thin. Steroids on the face will make the skin thinner, and susceptible to breaking and infection.

Genitals and armpits

The same conditions as for the face apply with putting steroid medications on the genitals and armpits. The skin in these areas is also thin. Not only are they thin, but they are also very sensitive, and will react readily to irritants.

Phasing out use

When you have been using a steroid medication for more than about 7 - 10 days, you should not just put down its use if you get relief from your condition. Before using the medications you should be advised by your doctor about the consequences of just terminating the use of steroid medicines.

When stopping the use, you should use a phased out pattern to stop using the drugs.

Pulse use

When using the steroid consider using the drugs in a pulse pattern. Use a mild topical steroid for 2 days, then use a weaker one for three then use the mild one for 3 days etc. This will help keep the medicines effective. You do not want to let your body adjust, and develop immunities to the drugs.

Missed application

Different steroid drugs have different methods of handling a missed application. Some steroid drugs require that if you miss a dose you have to get instructions about resuming the treatment from your doctor. Other steroid drugs, you will be able to just make the application when you remember that you missed a scheduled application time.

In most cases, you should not try to make up for missed treatments, but again it is best to consult the literature and instructions that come with the medicine you are using.