When do you need cortisone? | Eczema of the eyelid

When do you need cortisone?

Cortisone is a hormone produced naturally in the body and influences the immune system. Eczema, also on the eyelid, is often an allergic overreaction of the immune system. With ointments containing cortisone, the immune system can be downregulated.

In most cases, cortisone results in very rapid relief. However, since many side effects are also possible, cortisone should only be used in cases of severe eczema and unbearable itching. Cortisone can be applied locally as an ointment or systemically in tablet form. The second variant, however, is only recommended for extensive eczema.

What do you do with chronic eyelid eczema?

People who are prone to frequent eyelid eczema or who never heal completely suffer from chronic eyelid eczema. In acute situations, the treatment is the same as for one-time sufferers. Cortisone is administered to directly calm the skin.

Chronically affected persons should pay particular attention to careful care of the skin in the calm phases. Oil-containing ointments and creams can protect the skin and prevent it from drying out. Perfumed detergents or make-up should be avoided as they can additionally irritate the skin.

Duration

The duration of eyelid eczema depends very much on the cause. If irritation is caused by a foreign substance, eczema can recede within hours after the irritating substance has been removed. In allergy sufferers, eyelid eczema sometimes lasts for the entire season in which the respective allergens fly.There are also chronic forms of eyelid eczema that are resistant to therapy for months and years.

The duration in individual cases is difficult to predict. With some drugs, the period can be significantly reduced.