Last Updated on August 5, 2023 by The Health Master
Side effects of Steroid
The widespread use of steroids during the pandemic has brought about some unforeseen consequences.
Among them, osteoporosis, the weakening of bones, has emerged as a significant side effect of high-dose steroid treatments.
Steroids are now recognized as the second most common cause of secondary osteoporosis in individuals below 50 years of age and the leading cause in those above 50.
This article delves into the impact of steroids on bone health and offers essential insights for mitigating the risks associated with their use.
The Impact of Steroids on Bone Health:
Steroids, while effective in controlling infections in symptomatic individuals, have raised concerns due to their adverse side effects, one of which is the loss of bone strength.
This phenomenon occurs because steroids disrupt the delicate balance between bone formation and resorption.
They interfere with the early stages of bone formation and hinder the absorption of calcium, eventually leading to osteoporosis.
As a consequence, individuals may experience body pain, weakness, lethargy, and muscle aches as clear indicators of weakened bones.
The Role of Dosage and Duration:
Even a low dose of steroids taken for a few days can significantly impact bone formation.
However, the good news is that these changes are generally reversible once the steroid treatment is stopped.
To facilitate bone recovery, patients may benefit from additional calcium and Vitamin D3 supplementation, along with positive lifestyle changes.
Identifying Risk Factors:
Several risk factors can exacerbate the effects of steroid-induced osteoporosis.
Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, alcohol consumption, and low nutritional intake are key factors that can heighten an individual’s susceptibility to bone weakness.
Furthermore, those with pre-existing health issues such as rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthropathy face an increased risk of developing secondary osteoporosis.
Promoting Bone Health through Proactive Measures:
Individuals who are on long-term medications for asthma, seizures, or those who have undergone intestinal surgeries or suffer from endocrine disorders should take extra precautions to preserve bone health.
To counteract the impact of steroids, implementing the following measures can be beneficial:
Exercise with Weights:
Engaging in appropriate exercises that involve weights can help stimulate bone strength and improve overall bone health.
Quit Smoking and Opt for a Calcium-Rich Diet:
Smoking has been linked to weaker bones, so quitting can have a positive impact. Additionally, consuming a diet rich in calcium can contribute to better bone health.
Sun Exposure and Supplements:
Spend 10–15 minutes in the sun between 10 am and 2 pm to encourage natural Vitamin D synthesis in the body.
If necessary, supplementing with calcium and Vitamin D3 can further support bone health.
Consult Your Doctor:
If you experience fatigue, body aches, or an inability to perform daily tasks, it is essential to consult your doctor promptly.
Early detection and intervention can prevent further deterioration of bone health and aid in effective treatment.
Conclusion:
The rampant use of steroids during the pandemic has brought attention to the alarming increase in osteoporosis cases.
To mitigate the risk of bone weakening, it is crucial to be aware of the impact of steroids and take proactive steps to safeguard bone health.
By adopting a balanced lifestyle, seeking medical advice, and implementing preventive measures, individuals can minimize the potential side effects of steroid treatment and maintain strong and healthy bones.
By Dr Dhiyanesh K
The author of this article is a Consultant Spine Surgeon at Manipal Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, with extensive expertise in bone health and related treatments.
Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from The New Indian Express. Our team utilized an AI language model, to rewrite and present the news / article in a unique format.
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