Treatment

• The most effective form of treatment for bullous pemphigoid is corticosteroid drugs. Prednisone is by far the most common medication used to suppress this abnormal immune response, but other steroids can also be used to lessen the inflammation caused by this condition. With bullous pemphigoid, steroids are administered either orally or intravenously (regular injections). However, due to the nature of this medication, especially from long-term use, it is frequently necessary to include an adjunct form of care in the home.
  
  

Home Care

• Since steroids, like prednisone or prednisolone, have been linked to the development of osteoporosis, supplemental care for bullous pemphigoid is often essential. To combat this acquired weakening of the bones, take daily supplements of vitamin D and calcium at the very onset of bullous pemphigoid treatment. By including both nutrients at the start of care, you can help prevent the development of this degenerative condition. Actually, these supplements can also stop further weakening of the bones and even reverse some cases of bone loss due to steroidal drugs.
  
  

Other Self-Care Measures

• As you work to control this condition, other self-care measures should be put into place to ensure that any blistering and inflammation doesn't worsen. One of the easiest things you can do is lessen the impact of common irritants. The biggest culprit is the sun, so make sure to apply a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF about half an hour before exposing yourself to the sun, even if you're only going outdoors for a brief amount of time.
  
  You should also make sure to have plenty of sterile bandages on hand during a "flare-up." This is largely due to the characteristics of the associated blisters, as most of them are filled with fluid, making them easily broken. As soon as a puncture occurs within one or more of these sores, wrap the affected part of the skin with sterile gauze and allow it to heal. This should protect the ulcerated blister from any bacteria or germs that may cause an infection.