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how long does low dose prednislone work for eczema?

My 4 year old has had severe eczema since he was 3 weeks old.  Recently, he has aquired staph in some of the open sores presumably from the intense itching and scratching.  He has had to have Antibiotics and low dose Prednislone 5mg X 5 days twice.  This has happened twice this winter.  Much of his body is covered in eczema and the allergist and derm call it "moderate to severe".  This last dose seemed to do the trick as they changed his ABX to Omnicef vs Keflex.  He has been finished with the treatment for 3 weeks and with the Elidil and dipping him in Aquaphor 3 times per day he has not had anymore than just a "dry patch" appearing here and there which I combat with the Elidil, Momentasone and Mimyx and the usual Aquaphor regimine.  He also takes Atarax 2 to 3 tsps per day for his allergies.  Is this wonderfully clear skin still associated with the low dose steroids?  Could I be so lucky to be keeping it at bay after all of these years?  He is allergic to eggs, soy, nuts and dust mites.  I keep him away from these as much a possible.  I also limit his milk intake as I had mild eczema when I was a kid associated with milk consumption.  I just want my beautiful boy to be happy and not in pain and scratching.  Thank you
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Avatar universal
Thank you for replying to my question but I don't feel that my question was answered.  What you wrote back was a general description of eczema which I am well versed in.  My question is how long do people usually find relief after taking low dose oral steroids?  Days, Weeks, Months?  Thank you for your time.
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Avatar universal
Hi,
     How are you? Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that usually appears first in infancy and then at intervals in adult life. Eczema may be set off by extreme temperatures, stress, sweating, medication, clothing (especially wool or silk), grease, oils, soap and detergents, and environmental allergens.

There is no cure for eczema, but there are a number of ways to relieve it. Topical steroids may be prescribed to reduce skin inflammation during an eczema flare-up. Topical steroids come in four strengths: mild, moderately potent, potent, and very potent. The strength of the steroid cream your doctor will prescribe depends on several factors, including the severity of the condition. It is evident that relief is due to use of steroids, but recurrence of eczema depends upon, preventing the aggravating factors.

Patients with severe eczema may benefit from phototherapy (light treatment) with ultraviolet A or B performed in the physician’s office. Immunomodulators also help in certain patients.
Consult your dermatologist for further assistance.
Best.
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