
Hyrocortisone valerate cream is commonly used to calm inflammation associated with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. The following HealthHearty article elaborates more on the proper usage of this corticosteroid cream.
Warning!
Hydrocortisone valerate cream should never be applied on broken or infected areas of the skin, as it can aggravate the infection.
Hydrocortisone valerate cream is a topical corticosteroid well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The topical agent is commonly used to alleviate inflammation and swelling linked to a wide range of skin problems including eczema and psoriasis. They serve to block the inflammation-causing chemicals released by the cells. This ability to prevent cells from secreting inflammatory chemicals is what works to heal the condition. No wonder, corticosteroids like hydrocortisone valerate cream are considered to be the first line of treatment for various inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, plaque psoriasis, and psoriasis of scalp. Allergies that cause inflammatory rash can also be treated with this cream.
Side Effects
Applying the corticosteroid cream can relieve skin inflammation, but this topical agent is not free from side effects, some of which may require urgent medical attention. They are discussed below.
Uncomfortable Sensations
Patients, particularly first-time users, may complain about redness, itching, stinging and the burning sensation at the area of application. This is usually not a cause for concern as these uncomfortable sensations do not last long and subside once your body gets accustomed to the topical medication. It is just the matter of a few days before these side effects disappear.
Long term usage of hydrocortisone cream can have a negative impact on the skin. Following are the side effects that may manifest on the skin:
- Skin discoloration
- Skin thinning
- Unwanted hair growth
- Stretch marks
- Blistering of skin
- Acne
- Spider angiomas
There are chances that the topical agent may pass through the skin and enter the bloodstream. As a result, the person may suffer from side effects of excess corticosteroid, some of which are given below.
- Weight loss
- Unusual fatigue
- Vision disturbances
- Unreasonable thirst
- Irregular heartbeats
- Headache
- Swelling of ankles
- Difficulty in sleeping (insomnia)
People who have been using this cream for an extended duration of time, or applying it extensively, are at an increased risk of experiencing the aforementioned side effects. These side effects are a cause for concern, and they may require immediate discontinuation of the cream.
Allergic Reaction
Very rarely, severe allergy to hydrocortisone cream may be experienced. However, severe allergic reactions need to be treated promptly. Following are the symptoms.
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat
- Shortness of breath
- Hives or widespread rash
Caution
- Applying the cream consecutively for several weeks is likely to cause side effects such as thinning of skin. No wonder, experts recommend short-term use of this medication.
- Applying the cream thinly and in an even manner is the key to reduce its absorption into the skin. Also, many times, applying the cream just once a day is sufficient to treat the skin condition.
- Keep in mind that this skin cream is well-tolerated, provided it is applied properly as instructed by your dermatologist.
- In order to reduce the occurrence of side effects, prefer lower strength creams. Use higher strength creams only if recommended, that too for a short duration only.
- Usually, a week’s treatment is enough to heal the skin problem. Also, use it on the face, only if your doctor has advised you to do so.
- Also, there is no need to wrap a bandage around the site of application as this can cause the affected skin to absorb the cream in significant amounts, thereby increasing the chances of side effects.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.