Cortisone helps so quickly

The exact speed of the effect cannot be answered in general terms, as it depends on the type and dosage of the cortisone preparation. However, it can be said that cortisone has an acute and a long-term effect. The acute effect occurs within a few minutes.

It is assumed that cortisone stabilises the cell membrane and thus produces a positive effect. The long-term effect sets in after several hours. The production of inflammation-promoting messenger substances is inhibited.

Cortisone helps as long as

It is not possible to state the exact duration of effect of cortisone. The type and dosage of the cortisone preparation also plays an important role here. The acute effect of cortisone lasts only a few hours. The long-term effect, on the other hand, can last up to several days. In most cases, patients perceive this as particularly positive.

When can one do without cortisone?

Under no circumstances should cortisone be used in the chronic phase, as long-term therapy leads to side effects. In addition, the inflammatory reaction is very low in this phase, so that the application does not bring any noticeable benefit. Cortisone should therefore only be used during an acute attack.

Furthermore, cortisone can be omitted in cases of mildly pronounced neurodermatitis which is only accompanied by dry skin. Instead, one should pay attention to the basic care. Creams which additionally contain urea, glycerin or even paraffin are suitable for this purpose.

Furthermore, general measures like extreme sweating, mechanical skin irritations or individual trigger factors should be avoided. Cortisone can also be avoided in cases of neurodermatitis with mild eczema. However, this depends on the localisation and the accompanying symptoms.

In the case of eczema of the face or neck, people are reluctant to prescribe cortisone anyway and would wait for a mild form. If symptoms such as redness, swelling and itching are not very pronounced and do not represent a burden for the patient, one would also refrain from using cortisone. However, if the symptoms worsen, a dermatologist should be consulted to initiate appropriate therapy.

At which parts of the body must one be careful with cortisone?

Cortisone is an effective drug in the treatment of acute attacks. However, it also has some disadvantages. It can cause skin atrophy.

This means that the skin becomes thinner at this point (so-called parchment skin). The skin can tear more easily and injuries are promoted. Particularly sensitive areas are the face, neck and genital region. Furthermore, care should be taken when using the product in the crook of the arm or the hollow of the knee, as the skin is very thin here. With babies, one should also be careful when using the product on the scalp, as the absorption capacity of various substances is increased.