Are steroids suggested in case of skin allergy?
Patient: Hi, My relative has the below problems: 1. skin allergy (rashes and heavy itching) since 2 years 2. suddenly last month his BP dropped to 30/60. Was unconscious but things were under control after 2 days. since then no BP problem now 3. After this currently he is facing the problem of ulcers inside his mouth since last one month. He is not able to eat anything spicy and hard. 4. he is also under stress due to some family problems We have consulted 7 doctors but no luck, recently one skin doctor suggested steroids and one tablet to calm him down. Want to know the consequences and also about the disease he is suffering from. Please help... Thanks in advance Doctor: Hello.Thank you for asking at HCM.I went through your relative's history and would like to know moredetails about him like:a. What is his age? b. I would like to know about the episode of reduced BP - how it happened, what was the diagnosis. c. I would like to know any other medical conditions he may have as well as any other medications he may be taking on frequent/regular basis. From your given history, I would like to make suggestions for him as follows:1. Were I treating him, I would prescribe him regular anti0histamines like levocetirizine and hydroxyzine. I may add montelukast to his regular treatment if no response with above.2. I usually prescribe a short course of corticosteroids if his itching & rashes are very severe and do not respond to above treatment. Once they are controlled with corticosteroids, they may be safely withdrawn under doctor's guidance. 3. I would also suggest him a good multivitamin supplement containing adequate vitamin B complex. 4. I would also suggest him to apply lotion like calamine over itchy areas.5. Stress can aggravate allergies, hence I usually suggest my stressed patients regular meditation & yoga to reduce stress.Diagnosis requires detailed evaluation of all his symptoms including his past medical history and family history. Hope above suggestions will be helpful to you.Should you have any further query, please feel free to ask at HCM.Wish him the best of the health.Thank you & Regards.