Steroids: what are they?
The synthetic form of hormones, or steroids, are substances that the human body naturally produces. Steroids are made to function similarly to these hormones in order to lower inflammation.
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They differ from anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders and sportsmen and are also referred to as corticosteroids.
Although steroids won’t treat your illness, they are excellent at lowering inflammation and will lessen stiffness, discomfort, and swelling.
In most cases, inflammation is the body’s normal response to a bacterial infection. In order to combat infections or germs, your immune system creates additional fluid, which results in swelling, redness, and heat in the afflicted region. If you have ever had a cut or wound on your skin, you may have noticed this.
When some diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, go unchecked, the immune system creates inflammation in the joints or other body parts, which, if ignored, can result in irreversible damage. This immunological response can be lessened with the use of steroids.
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Is there a reason why I won’t be given a prescription for steroids?
If you have an infection or any wounds on your body, you might not be able to start steroids since they could mask some of your symptoms or prolong the healing process.
Certain medical diseases, such diabetes, heart or blood pressure problems, or mental health concerns, may be impacted by steroids. Your doctor must ensure that the steroids aren’t aggravating any existing problems if you have any of them.
Prednisolone may not be suitable for you if you have systemic sclerosis because at certain dosages, it may induce renal issues.
If you have a skin infection, you will not be able to use steroid creams or gels. If you have any of these illnesses, you may not be able to use steroid creams since they can exacerbate certain other skin issues including rosacea, acne, or ulcers.
If you typically use contact lenses, you may need to refrain from doing so while receiving steroid eye drops.
How do you take them?
Depending on the illness you have, there are several ways to take steroids and possible dose variations. An estimate of how frequently you would need to take steroids is provided in the table below.
Medication should always be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Soluble pills, liquids, and tablets
time a day, on average.
Ideally early in the day.
either in addition to or instead of meals to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Gels and creams
usually for a couple of weeks, once or twice daily.
Your physician may advise taking them for a longer duration but less often.
Use only on skin regions that are impacted.
Ointments and eye drops
It might be necessary to take them frequently during the day.
Every time you take it, you usually get one drop in each eye.
To minimize the chance of adverse effects, you will receive the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time. When your symptoms go better, your doctor may usually gradually lower your dose or prescribe a different drug.
It’s critical that you consult your healthcare provider before stopping your steroid use.
If you abruptly stop taking steroid pills after using them for longer than a few days, you may have withdrawal symptoms. To make sure your symptoms don’t come back, you can be given a low dose—referred to as a maintenance dose—for an extended period of time.
Holding a card for steroids
You must always have a steroid card with you if you use large amounts of steroids or if you use them for more than three weeks. This will contain details on the dosage and duration of your medication use.
Should you want one, a steroid card ought to be provided by your physician, rheumatology nurse, or pharmacist. Ensure that any modifications to your steroid dosage are reflected on the card.
The use of steroids can prevent the body from manufacturing natural hormones, which might be harmful in the event of illness, an accident, or the need for surgery. Any other physician who treats you will be better able to oversee your treatment if you have the card on you.
Consult the medical expert who prescribed your steroids if you have any questions or concerns about this.
