Does cortisone help eczema?

If you are suffering from eczema, you may have heard about cortisone as a treatment option. But does it really work? And why does everyone keep talking about it like they’re in some kind of secret cult? Fear not, my friend! I am here to provide answers and clear up any confusion surrounding the use of cortisone for eczema.

Let’s Talk About Eczema

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of how cortisone works on this oh-so-itchy skin condition, let’s get a quick primer on what exactly is going on with our epidermis.

Eczema is a chronic skin inflammation issue that causes redness, dry patches, flakiness or blisters. It can be caused by genetics or triggered by environmental factors such as allergies, harsh soaps/cleaners and temperature changes. Regardless of its origin story it is frustrating AF and can really affect self conscious levels.

There are several types or subtypes which vary in cause and presentation but classic symptoms includes itching discomfort which interferes with daily life activities; reddish raised bumps which may crack ooze fluid if scratched ; swollen thinning fragile skin would feel so painful even during basic tasks such showering dressing etc.

## What Is Cortisone?

Cortisone belongs to a class of synthetic glucocorticoids hormones produced endogenously by adrenal glands situated near kidneys (adrenal cortex) . These hormones naturally suppress inflammation in order to maintain homeostasis -which means harmony within different organs/systems functioning adequately-. Synthetic glucocorticoid mimics those actions therefore has anti-inflammatory properties useful for treating inflammatory disorders (asthma , arthritis…) & allergic disease (allergic rhinitus)

How does Corticosteroid Fare Against Eczema Symptoms?

So.. drum roll please what about that cortisone for your itchy redness? The answer is YES, cortisone can be an effective treatment option in a lot of cases! According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Topical steroids are first line therapy especially mild to moderate forms (ie not widespread , no severe blistering or infection). This means medications creams/ointments prescribed by physicians which contains various strengths/formulation of glucocorticoids eligible for different ages and affected sites. The benefits offered varies on factors such as the potency/strength will depend upon severity involved ie acute inflammatory phase or longterm maintenance control; where patchy dry scaling is localised flexural areas/sensitive zones (face, neck armpit..) would need less potent steroids than other regions with tougher skin like the hands and feet.

Asking yourself ‘how do they work?’ here’s a simple explanation.
Cortisol levels vary during hyperstimulation periods over releasing cortisol causing inflammation . Cortisone administered reminds body mechanisms regulating cortisol production/fluctuation hence decreasing inflammation signals = relief itching& rash symptoms. Something you might want to remember dermatologists have advised that topical steroid treatment should ideally last only until eczema resolves meaning one shouldn’t use them once skin has healed because they cause side effects /complications including thinning fragility change pigmentation & more itchiness!

Possible Side Effects

When using medication under medical prescription,it is primordial though difficult not exceed recommended daily dose intervals/concentrations ; overtreatment may result in passing through systemic bloosstream leading to generalised full blown adverse events mainly cushing syndrome -weight gain hypertension-, Increased blood sugar/diabetes risk… due suppression hypothalamic pituitary axis taking cortisol hormonal “circulating system” limit duration apply frequency consistent covering entire lesion maintain gentle moisturisation ie pairing with emollient agents // cooling compresses drinking fluids staying away from triggers.

Potential Alternatives

Alright, we’re now well aware that cortisone can be an effective treatment option for eczema. But what if you’re itching (pun intended) to try something else? Well there are few natural alternatives without having to apply steroids on yourself:

  • Scratching (surprised?)can assist the repair & itch relief process while renewing immune cells then additionally a small cut within scraping would produce mild amounts of cytokines which helps body improve it’s barrier function minimise activity aggrevating eczema triggering cascades..

Bear in mind scratching may exacerbate the issue especially when done excessively predisposing skin to infection- those dirty claws can lodge bad bacteria !-, lichenification = roughening and thickening of skin becoming difficult manage in longterm immunological resistance.

  • Oatmeal Baths: Colloidal oatmeal bath help soothes dryness promotes healing and normalises pH with no risk of side effects

  • Probiotic supplements/scanning products: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for example could possibly reduce inflammation in people with eczema along others probiotics as well I stumbled upon this skincare line featuring high levels of microbial extracts such Florè but before starting self medicating consult your doctor they know best!

So there you have it folks! Cortisone can indeed help treat eczema or atleast provide symptomatic relief , however, some potential side effects may incur depending on use frequency/extent . And while irritating conditions like these don’t usually result in fanciful miraculous cures or quick fixes, switching things up and making healthy lifestyle changes could potentially offer significant benefits -especially considering how actively impact our wellbeing overall.

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