Steroid injection is a common and effective treatment for arthritis, but it comes with a few potential side effects. In this blog post, we will explore how steroid injection can affect blood sugar levels and what you can do to prevent it.
What are steroids?
Steroids are a type of medication that are used in the treatment of various conditions. They work by modifying the way the body functions. Steroids can affect many areas of the body, including the brain and heart.
Steroids have been shown to have an effect on blood sugar levels. There is limited research available on this topic, but what is known indicates that steroids can cause a temporary decrease in blood sugar levels. This change is likely due to the effects that steroids have on insulin production and sensitivity. It is important to note that this change will usually return to normal after steroids are discontinued.
It is important to keep in mind that any change in blood sugar levels should be evaluated by a healthcare provider before starting or discontinuing steroid therapy.
How steroids work in the body
Steroids work in the body by decreasing the production of testosterone and other hormones. This can lead to decreased muscle mass, fat distribution, and strength. Steroids also cause fluid retention which can lead to weigh gain or undesired breast enlargement.
What is the long term effect of steroid injections on blood sugar?
Steroid injections can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels. In some cases, steroid injections can cause low blood sugar levels for an extended period of time. This can be a serious complication if not treated properly. The long-term effect of steroid injections on blood sugar is still unknown, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks.
How can you prevent long-term steroid injection side effects?
There are a few ways that you can prevent long-term steroid injection side effects. First, make sure that you are injecting the steroids correctly. If you are not using a syringe that has been specifically designed for injections, then your injections will likely be less effective and could lead to more side effects. Additionally, always use a licensed physician to administer your steroids as this will ensure that you receive the best possible care. Finally, make sure to track your blood sugar regularly in order to monitor for any potential side effects associated with long-term steroid use.
Conclusion
One of the most common questions I get from patients is about how steroid injections will affect their blood sugar. As a general rule, steroid injections will cause your blood sugar to go up for a short period of time. However, this effect can vary depending on the type of steroid injection and the patient’s individual physiology. In some cases, the injected steroids can actually stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent them from going too low. As long as you are monitored closely by your doctor, there is typically no reason to worry about how steroids will affect your blood sugar levels.