by Angie Pollock

Created on: December 24, 2011   Last Updated: December 26, 2011

Steroid therapy is a commonly prescribed treatment for a variety of ailments and diseases, both acute and chronic. One of the more common uses of steroid therapy is in the treatment of inflammation. People who suffer with diseases such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis have benefited from this type of treatment. However, this is not a treatment for everyone due to the side effects associated with steroid therapy.

Steroid therapy uses

Steroid therapy involves the use corticosteroid drugs to reduce inflammation symptoms, and reduce pain and swelling. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) describe these corticosteroid drugs as “similar to hormones that your adrenal glands produce to fight stress associated with illnesses and injuries.” Some of the ailments that corticosteroid drugs help improve include arthritis, asthma, and various autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and lupus. Corticosteroids also have a positive effect in the treatment of certain skin conditions like eczema.

Steroid therapy side effects

The side effects of steroid therapy injections and oral steroids can vary. WebMD describes the side effects of steroid therapy injections to include infection, joint bleeding, and discoloration of the skin. Oral steroids can cause acne, sleeping difficulties, and osteoporosis. The NIH warns that “Steroids are strong medicines, and they can have side effects, including weakened bones and cataracts.” Other side effects that patients may experience with steroid therapy include weight gain, edema, and potassium loss.

Along with the more common side effects of steroid therapy, there are also various undesirable effects that may occur including facial hair growth, hair loss, water retention, and irregular menstrual cycles. WebMD notes that oral steroids can also cause high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and mood swings. People with diabetes may experience a worsening in their condition. Not all patients on steroid therapy will experience side effects.

Types of steroid therapy

Steroids are prescribed topically, orally, or by injections. The drugs depress the immune system’s activity thus reducing inflammation. WebMD explains that “Steroids reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in order to minimize tissue damage. Steroids also reduce the activity of the immune system by affecting the function of white blood cells.”

Benefits of steroids

Although complications can occur with steroid therapy, corticosteroid drugs can be a life-saving treatment for patients. For people with inflammation of the kidneys, steroids can repress its progression thus eliminating the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. For people with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, steroids can ease painful symptoms which allow arthritis sufferers to continue with their daily routine.

Steroid therapy complications

Certain people should not use steroids as a treatment. People who have uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or congestive heart failure should avoid steroid therapy. Other considerations that should be discussed with a doctor before taking corticosteroid drugs include infections, peptic ulcers, and glaucoma.

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