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.

10 Common Skin Problems During Pregnancy and How to Manage Them

Pregnancy brings numerous changes—emotionally, physically, and mentally. While many believe that pregnant women always have glowing skin, the reality is that pregnancy can also bring various skin problems.

Your skin reflects your current state of health, and during pregnancy, you may experience a variety of skin issues such as rashes, acne, stretch marks, brittle nails, hair growth or loss, and dark blotches on the skin.

Most of these changes are linked to the hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy. Here are the top 10 skin problems pregnant women might face and tips to manage them:

1. Rashes (PUPPP)

Rashes, such as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), are common in pregnancy. PUPPP usually starts on the belly and can spread to the arms, thighs, and buttocks.

2. Acne

Hormonal changes can lead to breakouts or clear up existing acne. For some, acne gets worse during pregnancy, while others notice improvements.

3. Oily Skin

Increased levels of androgens during pregnancy can lead to more sebum production, causing oily skin. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter oil control cleansers.

4. Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches too quickly, often on the stomach, thighs, and hips. Keeping your skin moisturized can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

5. Spider Angiomas

These are small blood vessels that form spider-like patterns on the skin, often on the chest, face, and arms. Spider angiomas usually clear up after pregnancy.

6. Chloasma (Melasma)

Also called the "mask of pregnancy," chloasma causes dark patches to form on the skin, usually on areas exposed to the sun. Using sunscreen can help prevent this condition.

7. Excessive Hair Growth

Some women experience increased hair growth on the face, arms, and legs due to higher androgen levels. This condition usually resolves after pregnancy.

8. Brittle Nails

Many women experience weak or brittle nails during pregnancy. Using a nail hardener may help, but consult your doctor before using any products.

9. Skin Tags

Skin tags, small pieces of excess skin, may increase in number during pregnancy. If you have skin tags before pregnancy, you may notice more during this time.

10. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Eczema, characterized by itchy and inflamed skin, can worsen during pregnancy. It’s important to avoid scratching, which can lead to redness, swelling, and cracked skin.

If you experience any of these skin problems during pregnancy, seek advice from your healthcare provider. Many of these conditions can be managed with appropriate treatments, ensuring healthy skin throughout your pregnancy.