Hydrocortisone Cream: Uses and Benefits

Eczema can be a tremendous blight on your life. Once it takes hold, it is hard to think of anything else. The desire to scratch is insatiable.

As with any unusual skin rashes, you should always contact your doctor. Your doctor is the most knowledgeable person who can diagnose your health issues. Sometimes skin rashes can be serious, so early treatment is necessary.

However, eczema may already be a life-long friend of yours. You instantly recognize that itchy, flaky feeling. Over-the-counter lotions and ointments can help a little, but prescription-strength creams are far more effective.

Ask Your Pharmacist for Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone creams are corticosteroids, which reduce itching and inflammation. Hydrocortisone works by modifying the cells responsible for eczema. However, treated areas may result in thinner or darker skin. Your pharmacist will likely ask questions about your eczema before recommending the cream.

Once you have your cream, be sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) carefully. It explains how often to apply the cream, areas of the body to avoid, and possible side effects.

A common side effect of Hydrocortisone cream is skin thinning. The NHS warns that 'Long-term use of high-strength steroids can damage the skin'.

If you experience any of the following side effects after using Hydrocortisone cream, make an appointment with your doctor:

• Severe itching, irritation, burning, or dry skin where the cream was applied
• A change in skin color
• Thinning of the skin

It's important to take care of your eczema. Untreated open scratch wounds can lead to bacterial infections, which may require antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.

If you experience other side effects, consider reporting them through the 'Yellow Card Scheme'. This initiative helps track medicine-related issues. While many side effects are mild, some can be serious or even life-threatening.

The best advice for eczema sufferers: try not to scratch! Hydrocortisone cream will help you resist the urge.

Psoriasis and How a Balanced Diet Can Help

The Importance of a Healthy Diet for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that can affect part of your skin or, if left untreated, cover large areas of your body. While psoriasis is difficult to completely eliminate, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can help alleviate symptoms. A new eating plan can help you manage the condition and make it easier to maintain improvements over time.

Health Risks for Psoriasis Patients

People who suffer from psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing serious health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and strokes. A well-balanced diet can not only help reduce psoriasis symptoms but also lower the risk of these conditions. To better understand how food affects your body, consider having a test for inflammation conducted by your naturopath, which differs from traditional allergy tests.

Foods to Avoid with Psoriasis

Certain foods may aggravate psoriasis symptoms, including dairy products, tomatoes, potatoes, fried foods, processed foods, sugar, gluten, and alcohol. In general, avoid denatured or genetically modified foods, as well as packaged items. Even some vegetables can trigger reactions in certain individuals. To determine which foods are problematic for you, eliminate them gradually and replace them with healthier, organic options.

Foods That Can Help Reduce Psoriasis Symptoms

There are certain foods that can help reduce inflammation and ease psoriasis symptoms, such as:

• Fish and seafood: High in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
• Lean meats: Chicken and turkey are good sources of protein without the inflammatory effects of red meat.
• Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, they also contain vitamin C, manganese, and fiber.
• Vegetables: Carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, and broccoli have anti-inflammatory properties and provide essential nutrients.
• Nuts and avocados: These are rich in healthy fats that support overall health and reduce inflammation.
• Whole grains: High in fiber and antioxidants, whole grains can help reduce inflammation and support digestive health.

Conclusion

Eating a well-balanced diet with these foods may help reduce psoriasis symptoms and lower the risk of developing related health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so it's important to identify which foods work best for you. Gradually eliminate potential triggers and monitor how your body responds.

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