How to use Corticoids to treat skin diseases?
I heard a lot about the side effects of corticosteroids when used to treat skin diseases. Specifically, how? Nguyen Thanh Tung (Bac Ninh).
Corticoids are used to treat skin diseases, either alone or in combination with an antibiotic. The drugs come in the form of ointments, solutions, gels, creams, etc. This is one of the groups of drugs that are often abused in treatment.
The most common side effects are acne and acne-like skin lesions, stretch marks, telangiectasia, hirsutism, delayed wound healing, outbreaks of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections... For strong corticosteroids, they can cause skin atrophy (especially when applied to thin, wrinkled skin areas)... Side effects will be more severe if the medication is applied with a long-term occlusive dressing without the supervision and guidance of a physician. These side effects will make the disease worse, making subsequent diagnosis and treatment difficult because they cause changes in the clinical form and the disease's ability to respond to treatment...
To minimize the side effects of corticosteroids, it is necessary to use them as directed. Usually, apply 1-2 times a day. For chronic lesions, usually apply the medicine for 2 weeks, then rest for a few days or 1 week, then repeat 2-3 times like that, then replace with a medicine with a milder activity.
Different skin areas have different anatomical characteristics and drug absorption capacity, so it is necessary to apply accordingly. For example, in areas with thick skin (hands, feet), you should use a strong to extremely strong active ingredient. For areas with thin skin (groin, scrotum, face), you should use a medium or mild type. When applying the drug, avoid applying it to a large area of skin (especially with strong and extremely strong active ingredients) because it can easily cause systemic complications. On the other hand, applying the ointment to a large area will limit the skin's respiration. Therefore, if there is a widespread lesion throughout the body, you should apply it to each area in rotation.
According to Health & Life - VT
