Long-term use of steroids in the treatment of atopic dermatitis is disturbing.Tell them about the risks, proper use, and steroid loss

 

I've been using steroids for a long time, but the side effects...…. Maybe some people are worried about that.In atopic dermatitis, steroids can be used as a standard treatment, but the risk of side effects is also a concern when used for a long time or when using a strong grade.So this time, we're going to talk about the risk of side effects from steroid therapy, the right way to use steroids, and steroid loss.

Steroids are important to use correctly

I'm using steroids for a long time to treat atopic dermatitis, and I'm worried about the side effects.

Of course, steroids can cause side effects if used incorrectly.However, if you use the appropriate amount in the area you need for the appropriate period of time, there will be no problem in many cases.However, if you stop using it or resume using it at your own discretion before the symptoms get better, it can lead to worsening symptoms.In addition, repeating this wrong usage may not work and require a stronger grade of steroids.

What side effects can occur if used incorrectly?

In addition to redening the skin or making the blood vessels appear transparent, it can be susceptible to infection with germs and viruses, or acne or plums can occur.

What is important to prevent side effects?

As discussed earlier, it is important not to discontinue or resume use at your own discretion.In addition, steroids are prescribed by the doctor according to the severity, so you must use the steroids prescribed by the doctor according to the instructions.

proper use of steroids

Basically, apply a thin layer twice in the morning and night.The amount of steroid in the hand is appropriate (about 0.5 g) pushed out of the tube from the tip of the index finger to the first joint.When applying to the skin, apply it so that it spreads smoothly without rubbing.At this time, be careful not to attach steroids except for the affected area, and wash your hands properly after applying.

Can I stop using steroids if my symptoms get better?

Please also check with your doctor when to stop steroids.If you are using steroids for a long time, symptoms can worsen rapidly if you suddenly stop.Therefore, even if the symptoms have improved a lot, you should check with your doctor and gradually lose weight.

How do you lose steroids over a period of time?

There are several ways to lose steroids.At first, there are ways to improve symptoms in a short period of time using high-effective steroid external drugs and gradually move to a weak-grade drug while looking at the condition, or to reduce steroids in combination with a treatment called "light therapy."However, the method and duration of weight loss are largely different depending on the patient's symptoms, so it cannot be said uniformly.

Phototherapy and combined loss

Please tell me about the treatment called phototherapy.

Phototherapy is a treatment using the "immune suppression reaction" of ultraviolet rays.Ultraviolet rays have a function to suppress allergic reactions such as atopic dermatitis.Phototherapy can be expected to use this action to suppress the excessive immune response of atopic dermatitis.Special rays (ultraviolet rays) can be irradiated to the skin to soothe symptoms such as red light, itching, and turn-over abnormalities.Among them, the treatment using a device called Serabim UV is a new treatment covered by insurance in 2020 as a light therapy that irradiates the affected area with short wavelengths of ultraviolet rays.Besides atopic dermatitis, it also deals with circular alopecia.

I'm a little worried about UV rays on my face.Is it safe?

Ultraviolet rays used in phototherapy are recognized for their safety by removing harmful substances to the human body.The image of the ultraviolet dose being investigated is about 5 minutes of direct sunlight from May to August.Of course, this will not cause cataracts or cause stains, so please feel at ease.

Can it be combined with steroid therapy?

Yes. It can be used in combination with steroid treatment, and it is known to be effective for itching that cannot be suppressed by ointment.It can also be expected to reduce steroid use or side effects as symptoms can be maintained for a long time.In atopic dermatitis, symptoms may appear other than the face, such as the neck or elbow, but it is difficult to apply ointment to areas where clothes come into contact with the skin, and it may fall off even if applied.Phototherapy can also relieve this discomfort.It can be said to be an effective treatment for those who are concerned about applying to their faces or who do not want to use steroids for a long time.

How often is phototherapy performed? Are there any other side effects?

We investigate by gradually increasing the output once or twice a week.If the effect on symptoms is confirmed, maintain it about once every 1 to 2 weeks and adjust the number of investigations according to the symptoms.There are almost no side effects with phototherapy.However, it can rarely cause redness, pigmentation, and burning of the skin.

Are there any precautions for phototherapy?

Phototherapy can be expected to have a particularly high effect on itching, but do not stop treatment by self-determining that the symptoms have improved.Like steroids, phototherapy is important to reduce the amount of irradiation step by step.If treated correctly, the effect will last a long time.

Steroids can be said to be highly effective in treating itching or redness caused by atopy.However, while you can expect high effects, depending on how you use it, it can have a negative impact.When using it, use it properly according to the doctor's instructions, and gradually reduce it in combination with treatments such as phototherapy.

arrangement

Steroids can have various adverse effects if used incorrectly.Even if you are worried about side effects because you are using it for a long time, do not stop using it at your own discretion and make sure to use it according to the doctor's prescription.In addition, if you are worried about long-term steroid use or the side effects, it would be better to consult your doctor about whether to treat it in combination with steroids such as phototherapy.