Red itchy patches on the back of both legs

[Chocolate41]

I have had these patches for about a year now.

I have been to my GP and he perscribed hydrocortisone cream an emollient.It goes for a couple of weeks but always returns.

It is itchy and sore and red when I am not using the cream.

Can anyone help me please it is getting me down.

Thank you

[lovesradio]

Regrettably that's the problem, but see the National Eczema Society website for guidance on using corticosteroid creams, emollients and what is sometimes called 'weekend therapy'.

[Chocolate41 in reply to lovesradio]

Thank you all for your replies

[Kaprin]

I would ask to be referred to a dermatologist, sounds very similar to how I started and 3 years later I have it confirmed that I have Lichen Planus. After trying numerous steroid creams none of which have worked, I now have PUVA light therapy twice a week and currently on steroid tablets moving to another tablet methotrexate in 2 weeks time which will make me immuno suppressed. Had I been more vociferous with my GP about seeing a dermatologist perhaps I would not have got to this stage, so I would advise asking to be referred. I am not saying it will be the same condition but as you have already had it a year, it certainly needs to be looked at for your peace of mind.

[Gledwin]

Hello! How often are you using the hydrocortisone for when you apply it?

[Chocolate41 in reply to Gledwin]

Gledwin I have been applying it twice a day for a fortnight.It is so much better but if I stop it comes back.

[DakCB-UK in reply to Chocolate41]

It sounds like you are treating a symptom and the cause may be something you have a contact allergy too. If you do not find and remove the cause/trigger, the symptom will return each time you stop treatment.

[Gledwin]

I would try and slowly ween off it.. so maybe try and putting it on for alternate days for a week or so and then try and gradually wean off it…

[Chocolate41 in reply to Gledwin]

Yes I must try have used it for to long.Thank you.