Corticosteroids are the strongest anti-inflammatory drugs available, useful for treating any condition in which swelling occurs, according to the Merck Manuals. These drugs can save a life if inflammation is severe. Corticosteroids are not the same as those abused by some athletes, called anabolic steroids. Corticosteroids are useful for treating several conditions but, because taking steroids does carry risk, they should be taken for as short a period of time as possible.
Anatomy
Corticosteroids are similar to cortisol and hydrocortisol, which are hormones produced in the adrenal glands. These hormones help control stress from injury or illness, immune function and inflammation. Corticosteroids mimic these hormones' ability to fight stress associated with illness or injury, and this type of steroid use is therapeutic when the body's inflammation process is too strong. Corticosteroids reduce swelling, suppress the immune system and reduce itching.
Treatments
Corticosteroids treat asthma, arthritis, autoimmune diseases such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, skin conditions such as rashes and eczema, and some types of cancer. Corticosteroids are also useful in the treatment of dermatitis, allergic reactions, hepatitis, inflammatory bowel diseases. They can also be used as treatment for some types of eye disease.
Common Corticosteroids
Common corticosteroids include hydrocortisone, which can be applied directly to the skin and is available without a prescription. Prednisone is a commonly used steroid prescribed for patients with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, according to MayoClinic.com.
Methods of Delivery
Corticosteroids are available in four forms, according to MayoClinic.com. Oral corticosteroids can come in the form of pills, syrups or tablets and are usually used to control inflammation and pain associated with chronic conditions, such as lupus and arthritis. Inhaled corticosteroids come in the form of nasal sprays and are used to treat asthma and allergies. Topical corticosteroids treat skin conditions, and are available as creams, roll-ons and ointments. Corticosteroids, usually given in a doctor's office, can be injected with a needle as treatment for tendonitis, serious rashes and musculoskeletal problems. These cortisol shots are most commonly given in the joints, such as knees, elbows, ankles, spine and wrists.
Risks
The use of corticosteroids in general can cause side effects, depending on the mode of delivery. Skin problems associated with corticosteroid use can include wounds that are slow to heal, infections and thinning of the skin. Eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts can result from corticosteroid use. Fluid retention is a side effect of steroid use as is weight gain, swelling in the legs and high blood pressure. Other risks of taking corticosteroids in general include elevated blood sugar, mood swings, suppressed adrenal gland and hormone functions, and calcium loss in the bones.
