After an epidural steroid injection, there is a risk of long-term side effects. In this blog post, we will explore the risks and how long you should expect to feel these effects. We will also provide some tips on how to reduce the likelihood of experiencing any negative side effects after your injection.
How Epidural Steroids Work
Epidural steroids work by numbing the area around the spinal cord where the anesthesiologist injected them while you are under anesthesia. The epidural steroid will reduce nerve pain and inflammation. It can take up to 24 hours for the epidural steroid to begin working.
When to Expect Results
When to Expect Results from An Epidural Steroid Injection
After an epidural steroid injection, the body will start to release inflammatory chemicals and proteins. It typically takes about 48 hours for the full effect to be felt. Some people experience short-term relief within minutes of the injection, while others may feel little difference for a few days. The most common side effects following epidural steroid injections include headache, back pain, and fever.
What to Do If You Don’t Notice Results Immediately
If you don’t notice results immediately, don’t worry. It can take up to two weeks for the full effect of the epidural steroid injection to kick in. If you continue to experience pain after two weeks, see your doctor for a follow-up appointment.
When to Call the Doctor
Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to relieve pain from spinal stenosis or other conditions. The injected steroids work quickly to reduce the pain, but they can take several hours to start working. If you experience exceptional pain after an epidural steroid injection, call your doctor right away.
If you have a fever, chills, or any other sign of infection, call your doctor right away. Epidural steroid injections can sometimes cause serious infections.
How to Avoid Risks After a epidural steroid injection
Epidural steroid injections are a common procedure that can be used to relieve pain from various conditions. There are risks associated with epidural steroid injections, but there are also ways to avoid these risks.
One of the most common risks associated with epidural steroid injections is infection. Epidural steroids can increase the risk of infection because they can weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of bacteria getting into the body through wounds. It is important to take precautions to prevent infection after an epidural steroid injection, including avoiding any wounds that may not have healed completely and using antibiotics as prescribed.
Epidural steroid injections also increase the risk of stroke. Epidural steroids can cause blood vessels in the brain to become wider and more fragile, which can lead to a stroke. It is important to keep track of any changes in your mood or physical abilities after an epidural steroid injection and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Finally, epidural steroid injections can also lead to long-term side effects such as high blood pressure and anxiety. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with your doctor before undergoing an epidural steroid injection, so that you can make informed decisions about whether this procedure is right for you.