Dryness, itching, discoloration, wheezing, formation of rash are some of the side effects of cortisone cream. The following article provides information regarding the same.
Cortisone is a large family of drugs having the generic name hydrocortisone. The cortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid ointment, which reduces inflammation of the areas where it is applied. Usually, it is used to topically relieve itching and minor-skin irritation. It is used to alleviate arthritis pain caused by the inflamed joints. It also relieves the discomfort caused by the inflammation of the skin, which itself has occurred as a result of some sort of skin disorder. The cream is commonly sold without prescription in lower strength. The prescription-strength cream is used to treat the skin conditions which do not respond to non-prescription cream. Though cortisone cream is generally considered safe for usage, there have been some cases reported to have shown the occurrence of certain negative effects with its improper or chronic usage.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of this medication are stinging and burning sensation on the skin. The negative effects also include irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site. It may or may not be accompanied by skin thinning, discoloration, and formation of stretch marks. These side effects occur over a period of time, and are more prominent when the cream is applied on those areas which are comparatively more sensitive than the rest such as the eyelids, underarms, and groin. This is because the skin folds cause deeper penetration of the cream, and therefore the affected skin bruises easily and tears off.
There are some more severe side effects that may be observed in both women and men. They are permanent dilation of blood vessels and increase in the susceptibility of the skin to infections. The former is medically termed as telangiectasia. If the cream has been used around the eyes, it may even lead to glaucoma and cataracts. This particular cream can also result in tinea incognito and tachyphylaxis. There are some internal side effects as well. Some of them are suppression of the adrenal gland and production of natural steroids.
Precautionary Measures
The occurrence of side effects depends upon a number of factors. They include the strength of the cream, length of application, site of its application, and the nature of the skin problem. These negative effects of the cream may be avoided to a great extent by using it in a manner directed on its pack or as told by the doctor. In case, you are affected by some sort of skin disorder and are planning to use the over-the-counter, low-strength cortisone cream, you should strictly follow all the instructions given on its pack.
In case, your doctor has prescribed you the cream for treating any kind of skin problem or discomfort, you should inform him/her whether you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any other type of drugs. Tell your doctor if you are presently taking some kind of medicines for some sort of medical condition. Inform him if you are taking chemotherapy agents, vitamin supplements, other topical medications, etc. Tell him if you are affected by any infection, diabetes, circulatory or immunity disorder, and glaucoma. Inform your doctor if you are planning to conceive, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Any form of cortisone cream is not meant for usage in children below 2 years of age. It needs to be used with caution even in adults. If by any chance, you tend to develop any of the aforementioned side effects, you should stop its usage and visit a doctor as early as possible. Timely medical intervention will restore the normal state.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
