#oureczemastory

[oureczemastory]

⭐ 6 Types Of Eczema – And Why You Need To Know The Difference❗ https://www.oureczemastory.com/types-of-eczema-2/ #eczema #oureczemastory #psoriasis #atopiceczema #atopicdermatitis #allergies #asthma #skincare https://www.instagram.com/p/CB8osDAnP_Z/?igshid=qn4c4kq8spml

[shelleymarietalks]

Topical Steroid Withdrawal ?

Topical Steroid Withdrawal, or just a severe flare up? Since 2014 I have been battling what my doctor and dermatologist have said is a severe flare up of my eczema. What we still cannot understand, and may not get to the bottom of, is why my skin condition was controllable until I was admitted into hospital with Shingles. I have always used Betnovate, which is a steroid based cream, to control my flare ups.  What we didn’t know until recently is these should only be used for a couple of weeks and then discontinued. However my eczema would return and I would then be re-prescribed more steroids. I was always able to control my eczema and dry skin with moisturisers, such as cocoa butter and aloe Vera lotion.  However returning from hospital after 2 bouts of shingles and not using the steroid creams, my skin became that severe I found myself in A&E at least twice a month after it made me so poorly. My skin would look and feel like I had been burnt, it would be so severely dry that if I was to scratch it would flake, ooze and bleed. Alongside this I would have nerve pains and shake, and also have cold sweats, where I would wear layers of clothing because I felt so cold but my skin to touch felt like it was on fire! I saw various private specialists and was referred to a dermatologist, who I now see every 12 weeks.

*Photos taken in 2015

My skin has picked up and cleared up, however I still suffer. I am currently taking 15mg Methotrexate, which is an immunosuppressant, to calm down my immune system and stop it from attacking my skin whilst it is so aggressive. I am also awaiting skin tests and allergy tests to find out if I have a food intolerance or sensitivity to things within the environment. 

With suffering for so long I have done a lot of research in different skin conditions, allergies and reactions, in the hope of getting to the bottom of this.  One thing that was brought to my attention was Topical Steroid Withdrawal, aka Red Skin Syndrome.

Information from https://www.itsan.org/

“RSS or Red Skin Syndrome, also known as Topical Steroid Addiction (TSA) or Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), is a debilitating condition that can arise from the use of topical steroids to treat a skin problem, such as eczema. RSS can also arise from topical steroid use in individuals with no prior skin condition; such as with cosmetic use for skin bleaching or to treat acne, or in the case of caregivers who neglect to wash their hands after applying topical steroids on someone else. Topical steroids are also called topical corticosteroids, glucocorticosteroids, and cortisone. They come in many different preparations including creams, ointments, oils, gels, and lotions. Some are sold over-the-counter; others require a doctor’s prescription. RSS is characterized by red, itchy, burning skin that can appear after ceasing topical steroid treatments, or even between treatments. In RSS, topical steroids are effective for a period of time to treat the skin condition. As time passes, however, applying topical steroids results in less and less clearing. The original problem escalates as it spreads to other areas of the body. In the case of eczema, this “progression” is often mistaken for worsening eczema.”

I have done a lot of research on TSW, and have made connections with other TSW sufferers over social media.  Since November 2019 I have made the decision to ditch the steroids, both topical and oral, and withdraw any steroids that may be causing my skin to continue to flare up and prevent any healing. The symptoms of Topical Steroid Withdrawal are:

Before discontinuing steroids:

‘Rebound’ redness between applications

Rashes spreading and developing in new areas of the body

Intense itching, burning, stinging

Failure to clear with usual course of treatment, requiring a higher potency topical steroid to achieve progressively less clearing.

Increased allergic response

After discontinuing steroids:

Skin flushing bright red, resembling a sunburn

Visible and measurable flaking of skin – appears to be ‘snowing’

Oozing exudate

Skin cycling between oozing, swelling, burning, and flaking

Red sleeves: (arms/legs become red and inflamed, sparing palms/soles)

Thermoregulation altered (feeling too cold or too hot)

Hypersensitivity of the skin to water, movement, moisturizer, fabrics, temperature, etc.

Nerve pain, sometimes described as “sparklers” or “zingers”

Enlarged lymph nodes

Edema

Eye dryness and irritation

Skin atrophy (often manifesting as “elephant wrinkles“)

Hair loss: (head and/or body)

Insomnia and altered body clock

Appetite changes

Fatigue

Emotional fluctuations, depression, anxiety

Most doctors, and dermatologists, will not acknowledge topical steroid withdrawal, and claims that discontinuing the use of steroids is the neglect of a skin condition.  However my locum doctor at my doctors surgery backs me 100% with my research and self diagnosis of topical steroid withdrawal.  Although he admits that I have the best dermatologist in my area, he doesn’t agree that I still get thrown steroids into my prescription. Since I have stopped using steroid creams and taking steroids orally my skin has turned a “normal” colour from years of being a red, scalded colour and both the nerve pain, cold sweats and flaking have subsided. I do understand that this could also be due to the new immunosuppressants that I am on but feel discontinuing steroids has made me feel a lot healthier, and on the road to recovery. My current situation with my eczema is that it still dry, and where I have used steroid cream repeatedly in the past I have deep creases that are incredibly itchy, which then causes redness, but as weeks go by they are improving. I suffer a lot with anxiety due to how my skin has affected me physically, and emotionally, but that is also improving alongside my skin. Moisturiser wise I am currently using Cetraben which is prescribed by my GP, after feeling that the epaderm prescribed by my dermatologist didn't suit my skin, then I use Soap and Glory's Righteous Body Butter as an alternative, which I find very moisturising and lightly scented which makes a nice change when having such sensitive skin and not being able to used fragranced products!

What’s next? On the 28th January I have a skin prick test at Birmingham Treatment Centre to identify any food allergies and intolerances that I may have. Then after my 12 weekly appointment with my dermatologist we will arrange a skin biopsy in the hope of finding out anymore as to what is causing my constant flare up. 

I have promised myself for 2020 that I will try not to stress out over my skin, keep calm and try and remain positive whilst focusing on my new years resolutions and goals for this year! 

Keep Smiling xx

[oureczemastorygroup]

In this video, my hubby and I give tips on how to date when you (or someone you know) has eczema. Dating and relationships are hard when you suffer from eczema, but it shouldn't stop you finding true love. #oureczemastory Relationship Advice for Dating & Marriage When You Have Eczema https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jakXHR6O_JU

[oureczemastory]

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Apple Cider Vinegar, And NO This isn't a new type of Fancy Cocktail....But It May Help Relieve Your Eczema, Find Out For YOURSELF!⠀ https://oureczemastory.com/apple-cider-vinegar/⠀ ⠀ #eczema #oureczemastory #eczemarelief #eczemahelp #eczemasucks #eczemababy #eczemaproblems #eczemacare #soapforeczema #goteczema #skincare #eczemawarriors #healingeczema #eczemablend #eczemabodybutter #eczemabutter #eczemahealing #eczemawarrior #acne #psoriasis #naturaleczemarelief #nomoreeczema https://www.instagram.com/p/B5Q9IW1Hw1F/?igshid=1n821ms63e1h0

[oureczemastory]

How long does eczema last in adults?⠀ Get The Real Facts!⠀ #eczema #oureczemastory #eczemarelief #eczemahelp #eczemasucks https://www.instagram.com/p/B5a8jDZnl-v/?igshid=aq7hpq6apcyy

[oureczemastory]

Don't let the cold winter months keep you inside....Check out our latest article!⠀ 16 Eczema Tips That Will Allow You To Have The Best Winter Ever!⠀ https://oureczemastory.com/eczema-winter-tips/⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #eczema #oureczemastory #winter #skincare #skincaretips #eczemarelief #eczemahelp #eczemasucks #eczemababy #eczemaproblems #eczemacare #soapforeczema #kessidescalpeczema #eczemacream #unhideeczema #goteczema #skincare #eczemawarriors #healingeczema #eczemablend #eczemabodybutter #eczemabutter #eczemahealing #eczemawarrior #acne #psoriasis #naturaleczemarelief #nomoreeczema https://www.instagram.com/p/B5IhspmnvNS/?igshid=14y4d36q7uguv

[oureczemastory]

What Is HARD WATER? What is it doing to YOUR Eczema? And what can you do about it...Find Out TODAY!⠀ https://oureczemastory.com/truth-about-eczema/⠀ ⠀ #eczema #oureczemastory #eczemarelief #eczemahelp #eczemasucks #eczemababy #eczemaproblems #eczemacare #soapforeczema #kessidescalpeczema #eczemacream #unhideeczema⠀ #goteczema #skincare #eczemawarriors #healingeczema #eczemablend #eczemabodybutter #eczemabutter #eczemahealing #eczemawarrior #acne #psoriasis #naturaleczemarelief #nomoreeczema https://www.instagram.com/p/B4_XOdZn2kQ/?igshid=4y9nr2ndlswk

[oureczemastory]

Winter Is Right Around The Corner...⠀ Are You & Your Eczema Ready?⠀ What Is YOUR BIGGEST STRUGGLE IN THE WINTER?⠀ Tell us what #eczema problems/conditions worsen in the Winter for You!⠀ And We will try to address it in our next blog post on https://buff.ly/2Bnshtz⠀ ⠀ #eczema #oureczemastory #eczemarelief #eczemahelp #eczemasucks #eczemababy #eczemaproblems #eczemacare #soapforeczema #kessidescalpeczema #eczemacream #unhideeczema⠀ #goteczema #skincare #eczemawarriors #healingeczema #eczemablend #eczemabodybutter #eczemabutter #eczemahealing #eczemawarrior #acne #psoriasis #naturaleczemarelief #nomoreeczema #winteriscoming https://www.instagram.com/p/B4cuRIVJOka/?igshid=1ry1hup1g0x2s

[oureczemastory]

Perfect for anyone with ADHD or if you’re having trouble sleeping due to anxiety.

[oureczemastory]

[oureczemastory]

We like this 👍😱

[oureczemastory]

⭐ 13 Best Essential Oils For Eczema, Psoriasis And Dry Skin❗ Eczema is a skin condition where the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, red, cracked, and very rough. This term is usually used to generally describe common skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, and nummular eczema. Although there are several types of eczema, the most common type is atopic dermatitis. https://www.oureczemastory.com/13-best-essential-oils-for-eczema-psoriasis-and-dry-skin/ #eczema #oureczemastory #psoriasis #atopiceczema #atopicdermatitis #allergies #asthma #skincare https://www.instagram.com/p/CCGgZg-npT_/?igshid=3ncxu6ud26vk

[oureczemastory]

⭐ Got Eczema On Your Scalp❓ We Know A Secret!❗ Eczema can be hard to handle on the skin, but on the scalp? Scalp eczema can be very difficult and frustrating to understand, control and keep at bay but the following article provides some insight on root causes and treatments to use to reduce discomfort. https://www.oureczemastory.com/scalp-eczema-we-know-a-secret/ #eczema #oureczemastory #psoriasis #atopiceczema #atopicdermatitis #allergies #asthma #skincare https://www.instagram.com/p/CCFFe-EnGEF/?igshid=18hdsltwfwjr8

[oureczemastory]

⭐ The TRUTH About Eczema Scars❗ Eczema can be a very frustrating condition to deal with which can leave unwanted scars. Visit the link below to READ THE FULL ARTICLE! https://www.oureczemastory.com/eczema-scars/ #eczema #oureczemastory #psoriasis #atopiceczema #atopicdermatitis #allergies #asthma #skincare https://www.instagram.com/p/CCEUpZwHVxX/?igshid=1xfjn12d1tqm1

[oureczemastory]

⭐ Eczema Books❗ Eczema books for children and adults. Some helpful books available on paperback and on kindle. Books on eczema can be very helpful for children. https://www.oureczemastory.com/eczema-books/ #eczema #oureczemastory #psoriasis #atopiceczema #atopicdermatitis #allergies #asthma #skincare https://www.instagram.com/p/CCC9by1HvmW/?igshid=1h1ph5tjzfe42