Using Corticosteroids for Eczema Treatment

Did you know that an approximate of 15 million Americans are affected by eczema? It s a chronic skin condition where the skin becomes inflamed, reddish, and itchy. Having this condition can be pretty stressful because aside from the physical cracking, scaling, swelling, and oozing, it can also be painful and very unsightly. Thus, anyone who s suffering from it is interested in finding the best eczema treatment that can help alleviate their symptoms.

One of the most effective and popular treatments for eczema are corticosteroids. It is known to relieve itching and swelling fast. The substances in these medications are related to natural hormones, which can suppress inflammatory response - the most popular being glucocorticosteroids or GCS. GCS has been used since the early 50's in dealing with different inflammatory skin problems.

In treating mild to moderate eczema, doctors often recommend the use of topical GCS. The patient would simply apply the medication on the affected area of the skin. It may come in the form of lotion, foam, cream, or ointment. It may also be prescription or nonprescription, depending on its potency. For example, low-potency GCS like hydrocortisone is available without prescription and may be used in sensitive skin areas like the face or folds of the skin. Mid-potency GCS like betamethasone dipropionate comes through prescription and is used for eczema lesions found in the torso. High-potency GCS like clobetasol propionate only comes with prescription and is used only for up to two weeks to treat stubborn lesions.

Whenever a dermatologist advises corticosteroids for eczema treatment, he or she starts with the mildest form to reduce the potential side effects. Higher-potency ones may be used to deal with acute situations but only for short periods. Usually, it will only take two or three days for the eczema rashes to clear out.

Aside from topical forms, corticosteroids are also available in oral or systemic (injected) forms. However, they are often the dermatologist s last resort when it comes to treating eczema or other skin conditions. In fact, they are not recommended unless all the topical forms have failed to work.

Oral and systemic corticosteroids are effective in relieving itching and inflammation. With an initial high dose, it can eliminate the symptoms quickly. Furthermore, they are known to cure widespread acute eczema like severe allergy to poison ivy.

Corticosteroids are not recommended for pregnant women because they can cause birth defects in infants like cleft palate and cleft lip.

Now, with all the promises and proven effectiveness, corticosteroids come with some drawbacks too. When used inappropriately or for extended periods, they may cause glaucoma, cataracts, gastrointestinal discomforts, hypertension, growth retardation, osteoporosis, weight gain, skin thinning, and various infections.

The real secret in finding the best eczema treatment is discussing with your dermatologist about the options. Together, you can weigh the pros and cons and determine whether the benefits of a certain treatment will outweigh the risks. If they do, then you can go for the cure.

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