Types of Corticosteroid
Although often referred to as steroids, corticosteroids are not the anabolic type of steroid that is used to increase muscle and power. Corticosteroids are a synthetic version of the body's hormone cortisol. Their ability to reduce inflammation is very powerful, and they're therefore often prescribed to help heal many different conditions including chronic pain, arthritis, asthma and eczema. Depending on your ailment, there are many ways that corticosteroids can be administered.
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Topical
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Topical corticosteroids are often referred to as cortisone creams. They are primarily used to treat eczema and psoriasis. Topical corticosteroids are available over the counter, but for chronic conditions, a prescription is often necessary to help relieve itchy, inflamed skin. Depending on what part of the body they are being used for, topical corticosteroids come in the form of cream, lotion or gel. They should be used only for short periods at a time due to their potential long-term side effects, which can include cataracts and skin thinning.
Oral Inhaler
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An oral corticosteroid inhaler is a powerful medication that is often used to treat uncontrollable asthma. When used daily, the frequency of asthma flare ups tends to decrease dramatically. Corticosteroid inhalers are effective in dispensing the corticosteroids directly to the airways of the lungs, where inflammation is at its worst for asthmatics. This type of medication is available by prescription only and is not meant to provide immediate relief of your asthma symptoms.
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Nasal Spray
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Nasal corticosteroids come in the form of nasal spray. They are commonly prescribed to relieve chronic allergic rhinitis or hay fever conditions and can relieve congestion, by reducing inflammation in the nose. Over time, ongoing stuffiness and congestion can be eased by using nasal corticosteroids. They are also helpful in helping to prevent polyps from growing back after surgery.
Injection
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Corticosteroid injections have multiple purposes. They are often used to help relieve pain associated with irritated nerves. For this purpose, they are commonly used to treat the back, shoulders and knees. Corticosteroid injections are also used to relieve severe cases of eczema, asthma and arthritis. These injections are very helpful at eliminating symptoms but should not be administered regularly. This type of treatment is typically limited to three or four times a year due to the potential side effects of weakened muscles and loss of bone density.
Pill
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When taken orally, corticosteroids are very effective at eliminating many ailments including eczema, asthma, arthritis and some digestive problems. Oral corticosteroids should be used only for severe conditions due to the potentially dangerous side effects. Mood swings, weight gain, menstrual problems, weakened muscles and sleep disturbances are among the many potential problems that oral corticosteroids can cause. Always talk to your doctor about any adverse side effects while on your course of medication.
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