How long should I use steroids to treat eczema?

I've got chronic eczema on my knuckles for about 3 years now (I'm now 30).  For the past few months, I've been using Pandel (hyrdocortisone probutate) which worked for a few days and then flare up again.  I've now tried Triamcinolone Acetonide cream for about a day.  Is there a specific amount of time I should stay on steroids for it to be effective or is it simply a matter of using as needed?  Because I also have a stronger steroid Elocon as well I have not used quite yet and was wondering if I needed to step up to that in case the Triamcinolone is not a long term solution.  Thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You should not use such potent steroids without getting it evaluated from your dermatologist. Topical steroids when used for a long period of time is notorious for causing unwanted side effects like thinning of skin , steroid induced rosacea, skin atrophy, telangiectasias etc.

In most cases of eczema no one treatment will be effective. Medical research shows that the most effective treatment plan for eczema involves using a combination of therapies to treat the skin and making lifestyle changes(prevention of triggers and application of lots of moisturizers) to control flare-ups.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.