Steroid dermatitis

[robbit13]

About 4 yrs ago I had a patch on the end of my nose. I was prescribed a steroid. I won't go into long details, but to make a long story short, I abused them not knowing what I was doing. Unfortunately, I used a fluocinonide ointment on occasion as well. After much research and lack of health insurance to get a diagnosis, I am certain that I have wreaked havoc on my nose with the repeated use of steroids.
I stopped using all steroids in January. As i have read this healing process can take months.
My nose is still red, with many many lumps & bumps. It is dry, tight and painful. I am washing with Dove unscented and using Eucerin cream. I do wear make up to "cover" the mess so that I can go to work. I still look like a circus sideshow but I am determined to win this battle.
Again, not having health insurance I am unable to see a Dr and I was hoping that you could give me some guidance as to anything (non prescription) I can do to hasten the healing and give me some idea on how long it should take to at least start to resolve.
I am sure that you get letters like this all the time, but I used to be a very pretty woman, very social and outgoing. I do not go anywhere that I don't have to, I don't see my family or friends and some days I would like to take coarse sandpaper to my nose

[caliman86]

Doxycycline is a standard first line treatment and antibiotic used to treat steroid induced rocasea.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This can be due to steroid induced rosacea. Steroid induced rosacea or dermatitis is an adverse effect of using steroids. Some patients develop steroid-induced rosacea within weeks of applying a topical steroid; others may not experience it for years.

Using tacrolimus often resolves the itch, redness, and tenderness of steroid-induced rosacea but it should be taken after a dermatologist’s guidance. Avoiding rosacea triggers, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol, also may help clear the skin. If the symptoms persist then please consult a dermatologist. Also use of antibiotic creams, antihistaminics, sun screens helps but consultation of a dermatologist is required first.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.