My History and Discovery of TSW

(will add more details soon!)

I had first discovered TSW via ITSAN from a google search along the lines of “steroids not working anymore” back in 2015 (when I was 16), but I had dismissed this quickly due to scepticism. I was told by a GP to continue TCS use despite noticeable skin thinning, enlarged lymph nodes, and worsening rebound flare. I believed this was just predisposed eczema at the time, and deluded myself that it would inevitably get worse over time, which is not and should not be the case - hence the phenomenon of most children growing out of or having reduced symptoms of eczema.

The months went by, and the efficacy of the TCS reduced after every application. By late 2016, I was at my wits end. Out of desperation, I had stumbled across ITSAN and Dr Rapaport’s website again, now fully convinced that my persistent flare ups were indeed caused by TCS-induced rebound flares. I am currently going through TSW, experiencing many of the symptoms that others go through, and have seen the implications it can have on people, both professionally and socially.

The harsh reality is, the misinformation and/or ignorance that GP’s and dermatologists have on TSW stem from its root – if the NHS won’t accept TSW, then why should anyone working under their name? I do hope this blog helps spread awareness of this terrible condition, in order ensure that those using corticosteroids don’t face imperfect information when using such medication.