Side Effects Of Cortisone Injections | Drugs & Medications medical answers | Therapies & Treatments center

Has your doctor suggested cortisone injections and are you worried about the potential side effects? Have you already received cortisone injections and believe you are suffering from adverse effects? Read on to find out more.

What Is Cortisone?

Cortisone injections or corticosteroid injections are not pain killers. They are usually administered to help reduce and relieve inflammation that usually results in swelling — and yes — pain.

Injections are typically offered to people with arthritic conditions, major injuries, and inflammation of any kind. Cortisone injections are very common among athletes and orthopedic surgeons.

Is Cortisone Available In Other Forms?

Cortisone can be administered orally, applied topically (to the skin), inhaled, injected into tissue sites of the body, and be given intravenously via a catheter into the veins.

Some examples of the drug include but are not limited to: Methyl-Prednisolone, Prednisone, Prednisolone, Depo-Medrol, Solu-Medrol, Celestone, and Kenalog.

Side effects Of Cortisone

Cortisone or (Hydrocortisone) can cause a host of side effects. Some are common, and less dangerous, while others are less common and more dangerous. It is critical that you communicate any unusual symptoms, especially if such symptoms persist.

Cortisone Catheter-Related Infections

People who receive cortisone via a catheter may develop infections from the needle entry into the skin or vein. Pay attention to signs of infection, which include but are not limited to:

Redness
Swelling
Rash
Unpleasant odor
Warmth
Pus
Leaking
Irritation
Pain
Tenderness at the site.

If you experience such side effects at, or close, to the IV (catheter) site, do not hesitate. Communicate this to your doctor as soon as possible.

Other severe symptoms, that should be reported to your doctor IMMEDIATELY include:

Dark, black, tarry stool
Persistent and abnormal skin rash (pustules)
Joint and muscle pain, weakness, and stiffness
Eye pain, blurred vision, and other changes in vision
Unexplained or unusual bleeding
Swelling in the ankles, feet and lower legs

More common side effects of cortisone that should be reported to your doctor include but are not limited to:

Nausea and vomiting
Acne, redness, and skin bruising
Headaches, dizziness, restlessness
Anxiety, depression, and mood changes
Insomnia, restlessness, and sweating
Difficult, absent and irregular periods
Increased hair growth

Prevention Is Key: Precautions To Take Before Cortisone Injections

If your doctor has recommended or suggested cortisone injections for your medical condition, be sure to tell them if:

You are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding. If you do get pregnant while taking cortisone, see your doctor immediately.
You have any fungal infection.
You recently had or will be having surgery of any kind.
You are allergic to sulfites-or sulfite-containing medications, or cortisone.
You are currently taking blood-thinners (including aspirin), Phenobarbital, arthritis medications, digoxin or water pills (diuretics).
You are taking hormones such as estrogens, oral contraceptives, fertility drugs or other medications, vitamin supplements, or herbs
You have suffered or are suffering from conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, diabetes, or thyroid conditions.
You have HIV/AIDS, a history of seizures, osteoporosis, ulcers, herpetic eye infections, kidney or liver problems or a history of depression or mental illness.

Stay Informed: Communicate With Your Doctor

In conducting your own research, be sure to especially ask your doctor as many questions as you need to, if they recommended cortisone in any form. Simply put, be an advocate for your own health.