They are designed to act like steroids that occur naturally in your body.
Corticosteroids work by altering the immune response, controlling inflammation which can cause pain and decrease movement.
Corticosteroids may be taken in pill form, applied topically to the skin, orinjecteddirectly into the tissues.
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These drugs differ from steroids used for athletic performance.
Some people take them for chronic swelling of the joints and tendons.
Corticosteroids are frequently used to treat flare-ups or episodes of acute pain associated with long-term conditions.
Inflammation is your body’s response to injury, infection, or foreign substances.
When your immune system doesn’t function properly, this inflammatory reaction can cause tissue damage.
Inflammation can lead to swelling and pain in different areas of your body.
Corticosteroids help slow or prevent the production of molecules involved in inflammation, which helps to provide pain relief.
The forms used vary in their reach in the body and how long they stay active.
Others address local inflammation, such as injections into joints.
Potential Corticosteroid Side Effects
Like anypain medication, corticosteroids have potential side effects.
Abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroid treatmentcan also produce side effects.
They may be prescribed to treat flare-ups in those with chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Corticosteroids come in different forms, including oral and topical medications as well as injections.
Potential side effects of corticosteroids include nausea, headaches, skin changes, and dizziness.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately for any serious side effects, such as visual changes or tarry bowel movements.
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