And this is why we want to avoid steroids – topical and oral!
“Is this you?
Your history began in treating mild to moderate eczema with the use of an over-the-counter (OTC) weak topical corticosteroid then the use of a mid-strength to super-potent topical corticosteroid prescribed by a physician. The story proceeds the same way in almost all patients. The initial dermatitis (eczema) improved or appeared to clear but then a few days to a few weeks later, it relapsed. The corticosteroid cream was used again. Ensuing flares came closer together and reapplications of medication became more frequent. The dermatitis (eczema) free periods became shorter and shorter. As more physicians were seen, the strength of the topical cortico-steroid preparation was increased and then, as frustration mounted, systemic intramuscular or oral corticosteroids were used. At times, pharmacies renewed prescriptions without physician approval or patients were able to obtain topical corticosteroids from friends or family members.
As the dermatitis began to spread or became more chronic, more erythema (redness) occurred in larger areas. This was usually accompanied by a burning sensation. New consultations were sought and, on occasion, patch testing was performed; it usually revealed no clinically helpful data. You were often instructed to avoid cosmetics, chemicals in the workplace, clothing, bedding, and a large array of suspected, but unproven, allergens.
As the number of corticosteroid preparations and physicians mounted, and as the days of freedom from dermatitis decreased, burning sensations grew significantly and became disabling. You may be addicted to corticosteroids and/or have Red Face (or Red Skin) Syndrome.”
For a full description of the condition, click ITSAN.
When I first read this, I immediately dismissed it since I had not used any steroid cream for months. And only on the spot at my ankle. But one look at my ankle now you would immediately conclude that steroid withdrawal is a very high possiblility as the rash that started as a 20 cent coin has covered the top part of my ankle and has spread to my entire calf!
Also I had been using topical steroid since I was a young child when I had eczema on my lips and later on as a teenager on my arms and legs. Could be that as I have abstained from processed foods the past 9 months and have been slowly detoxing, my body is now able to get rid of the poisons stored deep in my body?!
Whatever it is it is, physically it is clear that my body is detoxing through my skin. And I need to keep supporting it by avoiding additives, chemicals and anything processed.
I hope this website may shed a warning light for those of you who have been slathering steroid cream regularly and/or popping steroids pills (including inhalers/nose sprays with steroids) without being fully informed of the side effects of this potent drug. For I certainly wasn’t 🙁
My questions on its side effects were always brushed aside and the doctor would concentrate on the fact that the creams will help me. Makes me angry when I think about it. Sigh.
Sure steroid has its place and so do antibiotics. But we need to be able to make a decision as fully informed patients, don’t you think so?