This is a week when I’d usually share a solo episode but I had a conversation that I just couldn’t wait to let out because it’s with my friend Michelle. Michelle and I know each other through our boyfriends who happen to live in the same building.
A few weeks ago, I was scrolling through Tik Tok and came across a post from my friend Michelle. Michelle usually shares fun TikTok’s of her boyfriend Jackson (sometimes without him knowing – like when he’s sleeping!) but this one was different.
In this one Michelle shared pictures of her life the past 6 months struggling with topical steroid withdrawal.
TSW is XYZ
I knew Michelle was going through something and that it was affecting her skin, but I had no idea the severity of it. I thought it was so incredibly brave and knew it would help so many people. I saw her a few hours later watching rugby with a group of friends and she told me it had gone viral with over 2 million views and people asking her questions and saying they were struggling too.
As we were chatting about it I realized I wanted to sit down with her to learn more and share her story with others. She was so excited (and nervous to share) but also really wanted to raise awareness about topical steroids and the potential impact that so many people are experiencing but we don’t know about.
When Michelle was 16 she went to the dermatologist to treat her eczema and left with a low potency topical steroid - very common for treating eczema. Over the next 10 years, the dose stopped working and she continued to get increased doses to the point where it was 650x the potency of hydrocortisone. 650! And then, it stopped working entirely and her body went into withdrawal.
For 4 months, she was in pain with bruising all over her body, itchy skin, couldn’t wash her hair or get into the shower without pain, and was emotionally withdrawn. She couldn’t leave her house and if you know Michelle, you know she is so social - always planning with friends and family.
During our chat we talk about:
Michelle and I both hope that this conversation raises awareness and any one who is using steroids understands the potential risks and advocates for their health.