Corticosteroids Side Effects

There is this hormone known as cortisol in the body. This hormone is said to be produced in the adrenal cortex. This very hormone takes part in many of the important functions which are carried out in the body. It is involved in controlling the balance between salt and water in the body, carbohydrate metabolism and catabolism of protein. Also, when the body's stress levels increase to a high level, cortisol is released in extra amounts. This helps in managing the stress which may be a result of infection, surgery, trauma or psychological disorders. So, when the stress is dealt with, the production of cortisol returns to normal. In case you were not aware, the normal production of this hormone counts up to 20 milligrams a day. However, when situation arises, it can be produced five times the normal.

Corticosteroids, which we are discussing on, are a synthetic version of this hormone which I just told you about. They are used for the treatment of different medical conditions which have symptoms like itching, swelling, inflammation, redness or allergic reactions. Common conditions which are treated with the help of corticosteroids include asthma, arthritis, eczema, digestive problems, dermatomyositis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. Despite receiving all such benefits, patients may have to deal with some unpleasant and severe side effects, as well.

Unwanted Effects of Using Corticosteroids

When used in the topical form, corticosteroids help in treating conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. In this case, the corticosteroids side effects may include blood thinning, easy bruising and wounds that won't heal. When the cream is used around the eyes, it may lead to cataracts and even glaucoma. Loss of pigment color, has also been reported as one of the symptoms.

For treating asthma, corticosteroids are typically used in the form of inhalants. They help in reducing inflammation and sometimes also aid in reducing the attacks. However, the side effects which one may have to confront include dry throat, hoarseness in the voice, nausea, unpleasant after taste and headaches. Corticosteroids, when administered as nasal sprays could cause side effects such as nose or throat irritation.

Severe medical conditions may require the aid of this drug in the form of injections. Reactions which may occur in the injected area include depigmentation, risk of bacterial infection, local bleeding, muscle weakness and loss of bone density. The injected site may become sore and blood sugar may increase in diabetics.

Other Side Effects

• Abdominal pain
• Acne
• Compromised immune system
• Confusion
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Dry, runny nose
• Hallucinations
• High blood pressure
• Mood swings
• Reduced sense of smell and taste
• Sleep disorders
• Sores inside nose
• Stomach ulcers
• Swallowing difficulty
• Watery eyes
• Weight gain

Know that most of these side effects occur when corticosteroids are used on a long-term basis. There are very rare cases where people have used it for a short time and have suffered from any side effects.

Also known that when corticosteroids react with other drugs, the side effects may be get more severe than usual. This makes it extremely important for someone who is already on some other kinds of medications and at the same time, using corticosteroids, to consult with his/her physician. The drugs which are known to interact include those used for diabetes, heart diseases, vaccinations and blood thinning. Also, interaction of corticosteroids with antacids, water pills and estrogen drugs may cause severe side effects.