Is there any way of avoiding weight gain while taking steroids?

Studies have shown that people tend to consume about the same amount (weight) of food each day, but not necessarily the same amount of energy (in calories). So it is possible to trick ourselves into consuming less energy, without feeling hungrier, by eating foods with a low energy density (low calorie content per gram of food). These include foods with a high water content (soups and stews), foods that absorb water during cooking (pasta, rice), and foods that are naturally high in water (fruit and vegetables). High-fibre and lower-fat foods also tend to have a lower energy density.

• This may require some changes to be made to their usual intake and what your family eats.
• Steroid injections can be added to other interventions, including anti-inflammatory painkiller medications and physiotherapy.
• Your overall body strength will contribute to better posture and muscle balance.
• Stopping suddenly can cause your adrenal gland, which makes important hormones for the body, to stop working.
• The person treating you will make sure you’re on the lowest possible dose to keep your condition under control.

However, they should be avoided or used with caution if you have an ongoing infection or a blood clotting disorder (like haemophilia). For most people, steroid inhalers and steroid injections shouldn’t cause any bad side effects. Steroid tablets are generally prescribed with more caution, as these may cause more problems.

Side effects of cancer drugs

There is evidence that steroid drugs may come through into your breast milk. You can make a decision together based on the benefits to you and the possible risks to your baby. If you have epilepsy this could become worse when taking steroids. Take your tablets after a meal or with milk as they can irritate your stomach.

• If steroid use is brief, up to a few weeks, it is possible that none of the listed side effects will occur.
• Your appetite should go back to normal when you stop taking steroids.
• Keeping the card with you will help any other doctor who treats you to manage your care correctly.
• Following a low salt (low sodium) diet can also help, but check with your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
• The vaccine against the most common cause of pneumonia and yearly flu vaccines don’t interact with steroid tablets, as they’re not live vaccines.

If you’re worried about your weight, take part in more daily physical activity – try walking to work, on the school run or to the shops and spend less time in front of the TV or computer. While sitting down, many of us consume calories we don’t need and find it too easy to snack on energy-dense foods such as crisps and chocolate. Instead, choose fruit and veg for your snacks and other low-calorie options such as plain popcorn, crackers and rice cakes.

Increased risk of infection

Practice arising from a seated position to standing without the use of your hands or arm rests. This is useful for balance and it strengthens the legs and buttocks. A daily walk of 10 to 15 minutes would be good if you can manage it. Some days will probably feel better than others, so you will have to decide how much exercise is enough for you.

Steroids and weight gain

This might be from an infection, surgery or injury for example. Knowing this allows the healthcare team to give you prompt medical treatment. Taking steroid tablets for a long time can https://gmbodyaware.net make you more likely to get infections. If you feel feverish or unwell, or develop any new symptoms after starting steroids, it’s important to tell your doctor or rheumatology nurse.

In one study of healthy men, being deprived of just two hours sleep caused them to crave sugar and eat more of it. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and take steps to remedy the situation if not. Never stop taking prescribed medication unless your doctor or specialist has told you to.

Why are steroids used in cancer treatment?

Although an underactive thyroid can occur at any age and in either sex, it is most common in older women. If you need someone to talk to or advice on where to get help, our Support and Information team is available by phone, email or live-chat. Please remember that you should never stop taking steroids (nor reduce the amount you are taking) without your specialist advising you to do so. Your hands and feet may swell because your body is not getting rid of fluid.

How can I prevent weight gain while having steroid injections?

If steroid injections are infrequent (less than every three to four months), it is probable that none of the listed side effects will occur. Corticosteroids are synthetic versions of the naturally occurring hormone cortisol, which is produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Although related chemically, they are different from anabolic steroids used to promote weight gain or muscle development. During your course of steroids, your blood sugar levels will be
monitored using blood tests.