Corticosteroids are steroid hormones that are involved in psychological body systems which control important functions like immune system function, water balance, electrolyte level balance, etc. Corticosteroid medicines act by stopping the production of prostaglandins and other like materials that trigger allergic reactions and inflammations.
However, there are many side-effects to the use of corticosteroids, such as;
- Increased appetite
- Blurred vision
- Body hair growth increase
- Weight gain
- Immune deficiency
- Aggravation of diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Acne
- Osteoporosis
- Swelling of the face
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Unexpected mood swings
- Muscle weakness
- Easy bruising
- Concealed hormone production of the adrenal gland
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Glaucoma
- Water retention
- Slow healing of wounds
- Salt retention
- Calcium loss
- Swelling
- Stomach irritation
- Cataracts
Often the side-effects of corticosteroids can be similar to the symptoms of Cushing’s disease. Side-effects can be avoided or at the least minimized, by maintaining prescribed dose, ensuring no overdose of medication, prudent use and close monitoring.
Long term side effects from corticosteroid use include permanent osteoporosis, insulin rejection, hyperglycemia, anxiety, ictus, depression, erectile dysfunction, hypothyroidism, amenorrhea, retinopathy, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, colitis, gastritis, etc.