Prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, is a common treatment for various inflammatory conditions. Your doctor may prescribe prednisone for conditions like allergies, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. Although this medication effectively manages these conditions, many patients may experience potential side effects, including some side effects that may not be as widely recognized. These six lesser-known side effects may occur when you take prednisone. By shedding light on these side effects, patients and their healthcare providers can take extra care to ensure a balanced approach to treatment.
1. Increased Risk of Physical and Mental Health Issues
Inflammation is a response triggered by the immune system to protect the body from perceived threats. Prednisone alleviates inflammation by suppressing the immune system. This medication also raises the risk of infections. Patients on this medication are more susceptible to common illnesses. You may notice an increase in illnesses like colds, flu, or urinary tract infections. You can protect yourself against illness by practicing good hygiene and promptly reporting any signs of infection. By dampening the immune response, prednisone decreases the production and release of inflammatory substances. Beyond this anti-inflammatory action, prednisone may influence mood and emotions. Some individuals report heightened emotional sensitivity and irritability. Patients may experience episodes of anxiety or depression while on the medication. Open communication about emotional well-being during prednisone treatment is critical for ensuring a positive outcome.
2. Vision Changes and Light Sensitivity
Another unexpected side effect of prednisone is vision changes. You may experience blurred vision, difficulty focusing, or increased sensitivity to light. In rare cases, prolonged corticosteroid use can lead to cataracts or glaucoma. If you are taking prednisone, get regular eye exams to detect changes in your vision. You also should report any vision changes to your doctor promptly.
3. Gastrointestinal Issues
Many patients report gastrointestinal symptoms when they take prednisone. You may experience bloating and abdominal pain. Some patients have more serious issues such as peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Your healthcare provider may recommend taking prednisone with food or in divided doses to reduce or prevent side effects. If you experience any gastrointestinal issues, talk to your doctor about remedies.
4. Increased Risk of Fractures and Osteoporosis
Studies show that long-term use of prednisone is associated with decreased bone density. Decreased bone density can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. If you are taking prednisone for a long period or taking a high dose, you should talk to your doctor about minimizing your risks. Your healthcare provider may suggest calcium and vitamin D supplements and weight-bearing exercises. You also should monitor your bone density with periodic bone density scans.
5. Changes to Your Face
One distinctive and visible side effect of prednisone is the development of a moon face. Moon face from Prednisone refers to the rounding and swelling of the face. Fat deposits may accumulate in the face, giving a fuller appearance. Water retention also can lead to an increase in facial swelling. Although this side effect may be temporary, many people feel self-conscious. Your doctor can explore strategies to manage this side effect’s impact on your well-being.
6. Adrenal Insufficiency
Your adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism, blood sugar levels, and the immune system’s response. Prolonged prednisone use can suppress the natural production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. This condition is known as adrenal insufficiency. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Collaboration with healthcare providers is crucial for patients on long-term prednisone therapy to ensure a gradual tapering of prednisone, allowing the adrenal glands to resume normal function.
Final Thoughts
If your doctor prescribes prednisone for your medical condition, you need to know about the potential side effects. Preparing for these side effects allows for a more balanced approach to treatment. Your doctor can ensure that the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks. As with any medication, discussing concerns and potential side effects with your doctor is crucial to fostering a collaborative and informed approach to managing health conditions with prednisone. These lesser-known side effects underscore the need for open communication between patients and healthcare providers.
