Since the late 1940\u2019s topical corticosteroids (steroids) have been giving quick and effective relief to sufferers of eczema, dermatitis and many other skin conditions. They come as an ointment, cream or solution and are available via prescription or over the counter.
\nMany validate their use and celebrate them for the significant improvements in life quality. However decades of misuse has lead to a phenomenon known as topical steroid addiction (TSA). TSA is also seen as a withdrawal process, because it occurs after stopping topical steroids use.<\/p>\n
Do you suffer from a skin condition that calls for topical steroid use? You might want to reconsider how it\u2019s affecting your skin and if it\u2019s worsening your condition in the long term.<\/p>\n
Topical steroid addiction is also known as topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) or red burning skin syndrome (RBSS). It occurs once prolonged use of topical steroids are discontinued. The withdrawal process is what researchers refer to as \u201csteroid rebound phenomenon<\/a>\u201d, which is when skin cells start to degenerate. The condition is characterized by red, itchy, burning skin, \u00a0the same symptoms it’s suppose to be treating. Dermatologist Dr Peter Lio from Feinberg School of Medicine suggests <\/a>this is the most elusive part of topical steroid addiction, because the signs and symptoms are the same as eczema itself. Perhaps this is the most dangerous aspect and why TSA is so prevalent.<\/p>\n Confusing topical steroid withdrawal with for eczema, or vice versa can lead to inappropriate treatment. \u00a0So, it\u2019s important that care is taken to prevent unnecessary and unwanted side effects.<\/p>\n Addiction, dependence and withdrawal are all commonly accepted concepts with drug use. Yet with topical steroids it remains undiagnosed. To be sure topical steroid addiction doesn\u2019t become a continuous cycle in your life, keep these points in mind<\/strong><\/p>\nWhen topical steroid use becomes a problem<\/h2>\n
\nThis may be because not everyone experiences symptoms. For some, it can take as little as two weeks of using topical steroids for withdrawal to become a problem. But it is still unclear why some are affected and others are not.<\/p>\n\n
Where to find additional for help with topical steroid addiction<\/h2>\n