Prednisone, a corticosteroid, is given to both adults and children for various conditions. As with any other drug, unpleasant side effects accompany prednisone. An increase in cholesterol is among them. High cholesterol increases your risk for heart disease, heart attack and stroke; taking prednisone may increase your risk for these conditions.
About Prednisone
Prednisone is a medication doctors prescribe to prevent inflammation in the body. Asthma, lupus, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and allergies are among the health conditions for which doctors prescribe prednisone. This drug is primarily taken short-term, but it may be necessary long-term for people with severe diseases, such as lupus.
Side Effects
Prednisone produces mild side effects that generally affect those using the drug for a short period of time. These include insomnia, excessive sweating, headaches, dizziness and nausea. This medication can produce serious side effects, both physical and psychological, when taken long-term, though. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology explains that when taken in higher doses, this medication tends to increase cholesterol and triglcyceride levels in your blood. Dosing varies according to the condition the medication is treating.
Atherosclerosis
High cholesterol is a common risk factor for atherosclerosis, a condition resulting from plaque buildup in the walls of your arteries. Prednisone also contributes to the development of this condition. Atherosclerosis is commonly known as hardening of the arteries because that is exactly what it does: it makes your arteries, the blood vessels through which blood flows to your heart, brain and other vital organs, stiff. When healthy, your arteries are flexible, allowing for proper blood flow. When hard, blood flow is restricted, depriving your organs of the oxygen-rich blood necessary to function.
Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, and it frequently leads to heart attacks. Approximately one million Americans experience a heart attack, and for most, it is fatal, according to National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. CHD is the result of atherosclerosis. The plaque in your coronary artery ruptures after a period of time, causing the formation of blood clots. This completely blocks blood flow to your heart, damaging various portions of the muscle. As the tissue dies, scar tissue takes its place, and heart attack is the result.
Prevention
Have regular cholesterol screenings to monitor your cholesterol levels. If major changes occur while taking prednisone, speak to your doctor about dose adjustment or another medication that does not impact your cholesterol levels. Maintain a healthy diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish and poultry. Begin a healthy exercise routine. Take a 30-minute walk, or ride your bike around the block. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine to ensure your safety.
