Has your doctor ever prescribed you a steroid? Maybe it was for a serious skin condition , a joint problem, or a condition like asthma. Some people get a little scared when they hear the name. That's because of the misconceptions about it. So today, let's talk about this type of medication called corticosteroids, exactly and simply.
What are these corticosteroids?
Simply put, these are medications prescribed by doctors that reduce inflammation in your body. Some people also call these glucocorticoids.
Imagine, our body naturally produces a hormone called cortisol . This is produced by our adrenal glands. This cortisol hormone can control inflammation in the body. Similarly, this type of medicine called corticosteroids that we give externally also acts like that cortisol hormone and controls inflammation in the body. But the specialty is that the doctor can change the dosage of this medicine to suit your medical condition and control it as needed.
The most important thing is that this type of drug is not the anabolic steroids that athletes use to build their bodies and win competitions. It is a completely different type of drug, made from the hormone testosterone. Don't confuse the two.
What kind of illnesses do doctors use this medicine for?
Corticosteroids are a very useful type of medication. They are especially used to treat autoimmune diseases, conditions in which our body's immune system attacks itself.
| Medical condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Lupus | A disease in which the immune system attacks various parts of the body. |
| Arthritis (Inflammatory Arthritis) | Especially conditions that cause swollen and painful joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis. |
| Asthma | Swelling of the airways and difficulty breathing. |
| Skin Conditions | Skin diseases such as eczema, which cause inflammation and itching. |
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Conditions such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. |
| Wound healing | Inflammatory conditions related to muscles and joints, such as bursitis and tendinitis. |
Commonly used steroids
Some types of steroids your doctor may prescribe are:
- Prednisolone
- Cortisone
- Hydrocortisone
- Methylprednisolone
How are these steroids delivered to the body?
There are several ways to administer this medication to your body, depending on your medical condition.
1. Locally: This is a method of delivering the medicine to a specific area of the body. This method has a lower risk of side effects.
- Joint injections: For example, an injection directly into the knee joint for knee pain.
- Topical creams: Creams that are applied to the skin.
- Eye drops and ear drops: Liquids that are applied to the eyes or ears.
2. Systemically: This is a method of administering the drug throughout the body.
- Oral medications: The method we see most often.
- Intravenous (IV): Injections given directly into a vein.
- Intramuscular (IM): Injections given into a muscle.
What are the benefits of steroids?
The main advantage of these medications is that they work very quickly. They can reduce symptoms such as inflammation, pain, and swelling in the body very quickly. Although it sometimes takes a few days, this is one of the fastest ways to control severe symptoms.
And sometimes, they can be lifesaving . For example, if a disease like lupus causes inflammation in the kidneys, it can lead to kidney failure. But steroid treatment can control the inflammation, protect the kidneys, and prevent the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.
The true story about the side effects that everyone fears
Like any medicine, corticosteroids can have side effects. But remember, not everyone gets all of these side effects. Also, many of these side effects occur when you take the medicine for a long time, at high doses. Your doctor will prescribe this medicine because the benefits of treating your condition far outweigh the risks of the side effects.
Some of the most common side effects are:
- Increased appetite and weight gain: You may feel a little more hungry while taking the medication.
- Skin changes: Increased acne, thinning skin and easy bruising.
- Water retention in the body: The face and body may appear slightly bloated.
- Stomach inflammation: Stomach discomfort.
- Mental changes: things like insomnia, restlessness, increased anxiety.
- Muscle weakness.
Long-term use of steroids can increase your risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. If you already have diabetes, it is important to check your blood sugar levels regularly while using steroids. Talk to your doctor about this.
When should I see the doctor?
When using steroids, it is extremely important to take the medication exactly as your doctor tells you, at the right time, and in the right dosage. Never stop taking the medication or change the dosage without asking your doctor.
If you experience the following symptoms, notify your doctor immediately:
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Inability to concentrate, dizziness
- If your symptoms have not improved after about a week of starting the medication,
This list of side effects may make you feel scared. That's normal. But remember, these are very effective treatments for many conditions. Talk openly with your doctor about any concerns or fears you have. That way, you can get a clear understanding of this medication.
Take-Home Message
- Corticosteroids are a very useful type of medication that reduces inflammation and pain in the body.
- These are not the anabolic steroids used by athletes. The two are completely different.
- Side effects are possible, but they usually occur when medications are taken in high doses over a long period of time. Doctors prescribe these because the benefits outweigh the risks.
- It is essential to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the prescribed dosage, and for the prescribed period of time. Never stop taking your medication on your own.
- If you have other medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, inform your doctor before starting steroids.
- If you have any fears or doubts about the medication or side effects, discuss them openly with your doctor.
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