Some stories change lives. This is one of them.
For many families, eczema is a common diagnosis. Weâre told the skin is inflamed, itchy, and needs treatment. And the answer always seems to be the same: steroids ... creams, ointments, even oral medications if necessary. Theyâre prescribed without warnings, without a long-term plan, without explaining what happens when the body starts relying on them.
Then one day, the skin stops responding. What once âcontrolledâ the flares no longer works. Instead, redness, burning, and peeling appear. The skin feels like itâs on fire, the itching is unbearable, and nights become endless. And doctors offer the same solution: more steroids.
This isnât eczema. This is Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW).
A Silent Cycle That Has Trapped Thousands
TSW isnât officially recognized in many places. It doesnât have a medical diagnosis, a treatment plan, or the attention it deserves. Thousands around the world are going through it without even knowing what it is. Theyâre told itâs âsevere dermatitis,â that they need âa stronger steroid,â that theyâre overreacting.
But if youâve been through it, you know the truth: the body is fighting to detox from something it never truly needed.
TSW Awareness Day: Speaking Up for Those Still Searching for Answers
Today, on TSW Awareness Day, we raise our voices for those still trapped in this cycle. For those who canât find answers. For those who have been dismissed, minimized, and told their suffering isnât real.
đ˘ Letâs talk about it. Letâs share information. Letâs make noise. The more awareness we create, the more people we can help.
If you or a loved one is struggling with TSW, know this: youâre not alone, and healing is possible. đ
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