What is the systemic side effects of steroids ?:
Weight gain, changes in mood, sleeplessness, increased appetite, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of infection are just a few of the systemic side effects of corticosteroids can cause. Prolonged use can also result in the suppression of the adrenal glands, a higher risk of certain infections, and eye disorders like glaucoma and cataracts. If your doctor has prescribed corticosteroids, you should talk to them about these problems.
Due to these serious systemic side effects of Corticosteroids it is necessary to know about side effects deeply:
● Increase blood sugar levels:
It is true that corticosteroids may affect blood sugar levels. By increasing gluconeogenesis or the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, and reducing cell uptake of glucose, they can increase blood sugar levels. Those who have diabetes or are vulnerable to having high blood sugar levels are going to suffer this effect more severely. When using corticosteroids, it's necessary to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and consult with your doctor to ensure proper treatment.
● Bone loss and bone death:
As corticosteroids affect bone density and blood supply to bones, they can quite possibly cause bone loss and even osteonecrosis or death of the bone. Corticosteroids can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures when used long-term or at high doses. They can also reduce blood supply to the bones, which can lead to osteonecrosis especially in the joints. It's important for people taking corticosteroids to infrom their doctor about any possible side effects and to think about techniques to prevent bone loss, like taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, doing regular weight-bearing exercise, or even taking medicine to maintain bone density.
● Weight gain:
The common side effect of corticosteroids is weight gain. They can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the face, abdomen and back of the neck by increasing appetite and causing fluid retention. It's important to monitor your weight and consult a physician if you have any problems. They might recommend other drugs or dietary changes.
● High blood pressure:
Actually, some people's blood pressure may increase while taking corticosteroids. They can result in potassium loss and sodium retention, which can increase blood pressure by causing fluid retention and an increase in blood volume. People using corticosteroids must routinely check their blood pressure and contact their physician if there are any changes or problems. Effective blood pressure management can require a change in lifestyle along with a medicine changes.
● Cataract and Glaucoma:
High doses or long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts. Clouding of the lens of the eye causes cataracts, while increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve in glaucoma. Regular eye examinations are necessary for corticosteroid patients in order to monitor for these potential side effects.
● Mood changes:
It is true that corticosteroids have an impact on mood; in fact, they often result in irritability, anxiety, changes in mood and depression in some people. Depending on the dosage, duration of use and individual susceptibility, these effects might be different. When taking corticosteroids, it's important to inform your physician when observe your mood changes. There might be require changes in treatment plan.
● Infections:
Corticosteroids will sometimes suppress the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections especially if they are used regularly or in a high dose. It is possible for infections to develop including bacterial, fungal and even reactivate inactive diseases (e.g., tuberculosis). To reduce these risks, it's important to use corticosteroids carefully and under supervision by a physician.
● Skin changes:
Stretch marks, acne, facial hair growth, thinning of the skin and easy bruising are only some of the skin problems that corticosteroids can produce. In addition, prolonged use may result in skin infections and delayed wound healing. It's important to take them according to prescribed and keep monitoring for any side effects.
