Learn the essential health guidelines and measures that help reduce side effects when using hormonal therapy and how to effectively manage cortisone risks.
What is Cortisone and How Does It Work?
Cortisone is a corticosteroid hormone secreted by the adrenal gland and belongs to the glucocorticoid family. This hormone regulates metabolism, fights inflammation, and boosts the body’s immunity. It is used to treat various conditions such as lupus, psoriasis, arthritis, certain types of cancer, and eye problems.
Ways to Prevent Cortisone Risks
To reduce the likelihood of symptoms appearing, it is recommended to follow these steps for preventing steroid side effects:
- Transparency with the Doctor: Inform your physician of any chronic diseases or current medications, especially for patients with diabetes, heart disease, kidney and liver diseases, or those suffering from depression, as these conditions may cause serious complications.
- Dose Accuracy: Strictly adhere to the quantities and schedules specified by the doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose, or stop the treatment suddenly without medical consultation, even if you feel better.
- Dietary Habits: Follow a healthy diet and avoid fats and sugars to prevent noticeable weight gain and stomach disturbances such as constipation.
- Monitoring and Screenings: Undergo periodic check-ups including blood pressure measurement, blood sugar tests, weight monitoring, bone X-rays, and liver function tests.
- Rational Use: Do not resort to this treatment except in necessary cases and under full medical supervision.
Cortisone Side Effects Based on Treatment Type
The impact of cortisone effects on the body varies depending on the pharmaceutical form used:
Oral Tablets
These may cause common symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, nausea, acne, and weight gain. There are rare and more serious corticosteroid side effects that require immediate medical attention, such as tongue swelling that may lead to choking, gastrointestinal bleeding (blood in vomit), or heart failure.
Local Injections
Used to relieve joint pain, but they may lead to skin thinning, damage to cartilage and nerves, or osteoporosis adjacent to the injection site. It is recommended that these injections not exceed 4 times per year, with an interval of at least 6 weeks between each injection.
Other Topical Treatments
- Creams: Using a cortisone cream for face or body applications may cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
- Nasal and Oral Sprays: May lead to nosebleeds, dry mouth, or slowed growth in children.
- Eye Drops: May cause blurred vision, glaucoma, or eye irritation.
When Should You Visit a Doctor Immediately?
Seek urgent medical help if the following signs appear:
- Stools turning black.
- Sudden swelling of the face, tongue, feet, or ankles.
- Severe shortness of breath or an irregular, rapid heartbeat.
- Easy bruising or persistent bleeding from minor wounds.
- Sharp changes in psychological state, such as depression or extreme tension.
FAQ
What are the cortisone risks?
Risks vary between digestive disorders, weight gain, changes in the menstrual cycle, and weakness in bones and tendons, in addition to psychological effects such as anxiety and isolation.
What are the risks of cortisone injections?
Risks include nerve damage, bone death or thinning near the injection site, temporary facial flushing, and temporary increases in blood sugar levels.
How can the damage of cortisone tablets on the stomach be reduced?
It is preferable to take the tablets with food or milk and drink a full glass of water to reduce stomach irritation, unless the doctor provides different instructions.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting a specialist doctor or obtaining professional medical care.
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approved by: Medica Health team