Managing Eczema: A Personal Journey with Steroid Creams and Sunlight Therapy

Living with eczema is a daily challenge that requires a combination of treatments to manage symptoms effectively. The use of steroid creams is a common approach, but the duration and frequency of their application can vary widely among individuals. In this article, we explore a personal journey with eczema, focusing on the use of steroid creams and the role of sunlight therapy in managing this chronic skin condition.

Understanding Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is often a complex condition that can be triggered by various factors such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Steroid creams are frequently prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve itching, making them a common treatment option for many individuals suffering from eczema.

Individual Differences in Steroid Cream Use

The duration and frequency of steroid cream application vary significantly among individuals. Some may use low to medium-strength steroids for maintenance and higher strength for flare-ups, applying them 1-2 times daily as needed. It is crucial to follow a doctor's advice to minimize side effects and achieve the best results. For more information on steroid use for eczema, check out my Quora Profile!

A Personal Experience with Eczema

My journey with eczema began when I was given a mixture of cortisone in Alpha Keri lotion at the age of 20. It provided temporary relief, but I found that sunlight was even more effective. Winter months, with less sunlight, would inevitably trigger a flare-up. At 27, my eczema worsened to the point where hospitalization was necessary. A course of oral prednisone was prescribed, which, while effective, was incredibly uncomfortable. This experience prompted me to seek alternative treatments, leading me to PUVA (psoralen and ultraviolet light therapy).

A Comprehensive Treatment Plan

In the years that followed, I developed a comprehensive treatment plan to manage my eczema. This included:

Moisturizers and Creams: Application of plenty of moisturizers, lotions, and creams to keep the skin hydrated. Strong cortisone creams are applied in very small quantities and only to very bad spots, for a very short period (two days). Weak cortisone is used for a bit longer, in small dots, but never over swathed skin. Sunlight Therapy: Regular use of a tanning bed to treat hand and foot eczema, carefully covering the rest of the body and applying 50 SPF sunscreen. This approach is typically done 3 times per season or twice per year. Aquaphor: Application of Aquaphor in a good layer over all affected areas, including eyelids and lips, to provide additional protection. Clinique's Turn-Around Cream is used on the face and neck for its soothing effects. Breaks from Cortisone: Giving the skin a break by ceasing cortisone cream application for a week if the condition is not severe. Weak cortisone is used occasionally, one or two days a week, to manage symptoms. Medications for Infections: Occasionally using ophthalmic cortisone creams for swollen eyelids, only as little as possible, to address minor bacterial or fungal infections.

Conclusion and Tips

Managing eczema effectively requires a personalized approach. From the use of steroid creams to sun exposure, each individual's journey is unique. It is essential to follow medical advice and maintain a well-rounded treatment plan to minimize symptoms and improve overall quality of life.