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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Effects Of Steroids.

I have been using steroid scalp application for my psoriasis for many years by now and this is the only medication that seems to be working on my condition. I only apply it when redness and itchiness occur. I have learned lately that using this type of medication which contains steroids may have serious side effects such as the effect on normal production of steroids in the body. What would that exactly mean? What are the symptoms in such cases? Does it have anything to do with metabolism or overweight issues?
posted on Fri, 20 Nov 2009
Twitter Sat, 21 Nov 2009 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 12 May 2011 Last reviewed on
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  User's Response
's  Response
Generally topical steroids (application) side effects are present at the site where they are applied such as thinning of the skin, easy bruising, skin infection, etc. Topical steroids are likely to be absorbed through the skin into the body and cause side effects similar to oral steroids, especially if they are used continuously for long period on large areas of the body such as the back. You are right, it affect normal production of steroids in the body which is the function of the adrenal gland. Side effects would include increased risk of getting infection (takes place with very high doses), reduced calcium absorption through the gastrointestinal tract resulting in bone thinning and an increased risk of osteoporosis amongst others. It can suppress growth in children. Some of the more common side effects include changes in appearance, such as acne, development of a round or moon-shaped face and an increased appetite leading to weight gain. Steroids may also cause a redistribution of fat, leading to a swollen face and abdomen, but thin arms and legs. The side effects are usually reversed once the steroids are stopped.
Anesthesiologist,  Dr. Dilip.Shah.'s  Response
In your case Topical steroid tretmant is necessary.follow some tiops.Permeability is proportional to thickness of skin.it has high in face and perineum. In case of Infection ,it is higher.Hydration has more permeability.Low potency steroids should try-Dexamethesone,Clobetasone,Flucinolone acetonine,Desonide.
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Effects Of Steroids.

Generally topical steroids (application) side effects are present at the site where they are applied such as thinning of the skin, easy bruising, skin infection, etc. Topical steroids are likely to be absorbed through the skin into the body and cause side effects similar to oral steroids, especially if they are used continuously for long period on large areas of the body such as the back. You are right, it affect normal production of steroids in the body which is the function of the adrenal gland. Side effects would include increased risk of getting infection (takes place with very high doses), reduced calcium absorption through the gastrointestinal tract resulting in bone thinning and an increased risk of osteoporosis amongst others. It can suppress growth in children. Some of the more common side effects include changes in appearance, such as acne, development of a round or moon-shaped face and an increased appetite leading to weight gain. Steroids may also cause a redistribution of fat, leading to a swollen face and abdomen, but thin arms and legs. The side effects are usually reversed once the steroids are stopped.