Nutrition and Healing
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I’ve seen it countless times…

A patient is prescribed steroids for a health condition—maybe chronic pain, inflammation, or a neurological issue.

At first, it seems like a wonder drug, bringing fast relief and making life more manageable.

But what many people don’t realize is that long-term use of steroids can come with serious risks, some that may not show up until it’s too late.

Corticosteroids (CSs) are powerful drugs that can suppress inflammation and manage symptoms in conditions like generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).

But as with most medications, they come at a cost—especially when taken over months or years.

Steroid Use: A Double-Edged Sword

Steroids are often prescribed as a first-line treatment for serious conditions like gMG and CIDP because they’re effective at reducing inflammation and symptoms.

However, recent findings presented at the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) 2024 reveal a worrying gap in how we manage steroid toxicity.

Many neurologists—even specialists—aren’t fully aware of the long-term dangers associated with these medications!

A survey of U.S. neurologists showed that more than half of them admitted to having limited knowledge on the risks of steroids, including their dosing and duration. Even more concerning, many didn’t know how to properly monitor for steroid toxicity.

That’s a huge problem because long-term steroid use can lead to serious health complications, from bone loss to diabetes, mood swings, and even immune suppression.

The Hidden Risks of Long-Term Steroid Use

I’ve always believed that while medications can serve a purpose, we NEED to be aware of the dangers, especially when it comes to long-term use. Here are some of the hidden risks of steroid use that are often overlooked:

  • Bone Loss (Osteoporosis): Steroids can cause a rapid loss of bone density, increasing the risk of fractures. This is especially concerning for older adults who are already at a higher risk of osteoporosis.
  • Insulin Resistance and Diabetes: Long-term use of steroids can lead to insulin resistance, making it harder for your body to manage blood sugar levels. Over time, this can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Mood and Behavioral Changes: Many patients report severe mood swings, irritability, and even manic episodes when on steroids. Sleep disorders and changes in behavior are common side effects that can severely impact quality of life.
  • Weakened Immune System: Steroids suppress the immune system, leaving patients more vulnerable to infections. This can be especially dangerous for those with compromised immune systems.
  • Weight Gain: One of the most common side effects of long-term steroid use is increased appetite and significant weight gain, which in turn can contribute to a host of other health issues.

Why Aren’t We Talking About This More?

The reality is, steroids are overprescribed because they work—at least in the short term. They can provide fast relief, and for that reason, they’re seen as a go-to option in many cases.

But as Dr. Gil Wolfe, a neurology professor, pointed out, the safe dosage for long-term use is far lower than many doctors think.

In fact, studies suggest that to avoid serious side effects, patients should be on doses of 5 mg/d or less. Yet, in this survey, most neurologists considered doses up to 40 mg/d to be acceptable for long-term use. That’s a big disconnect.

A Safer, Long-Term Approach

So, what can you do if you or a loved one is facing long-term steroid use? First, it’s important to have a conversation with your doctor about the risks.

Ask about alternative treatments or ways to reduce the dosage. In some cases, steroids may be necessary, but it’s essential to balance that with awareness of the potential dangers.

As a big believer in lifestyle changes, I recommend exploring natural alternatives that can help manage inflammation and support your body’s healing process. Here are a few options:

  • Turmeric (Curcumin): A powerful anti-inflammatory spice that helps reduce inflammation naturally without the risks of steroids.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil and flaxseeds, these support inflammation reduction and boost brain and heart health.
  • Exercise: Gentle, consistent movement like walking or stretching can reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being.
  • Dietary Changes: Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and reduce processed foods to help control inflammation and support health.

While steroids may be necessary for some patients in the short term, the risks associated with long-term use should never be taken lightly.

If you or someone you know is relying on steroids, it’s crucial to monitor their side effects closely and look for natural ways to manage the underlying condition. With the right approach, you can reduce your dependence on steroids and protect your health in the long run.

In case you missed it, here’s what else we’ve been chatting about this week in e-Tips: 

P.S. Mainstreams go-to treatment makes back pain WORSE? Get the details here.

Sources:

Johnson, K. (2024, October 23). Lack of Awareness of Steroid Toxicity Risk Among Neurologists. Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/lack-awareness-steroid-toxicity-risk-among-neurologists-2024a1000jen

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