Allergies might seem like a real plague which the modern generation cannot stop suffering from on a daily basis. There are allergic reactions that can be easily treated with the help of injections, and oral/nasal medications, while some might need a complex treatment protocol. One of the most effective solutions to treat allergies is oral/nasal corticosteroids or else called adrenal cortical hormones. Let’s take a closer look at what stays behind these medications.
The Efficacy of Corticosteroids
Adrenal cortical hormones are known as steroids with the function of cortisol, in charge of our adrenal glands, or simply a stress hormone, prescribed to treat inflammation and swelling linked to allergies, alongside allergic asthma. Looking ahead, they are not the same as steroids used and/or abused by athletes. They can be taken both on a temporary or long-term basis depending on the severity of one’s allergy. As for the functionality, adrenal cortical hormones work by mimicking the cortisol’s effect which is secreted by adrenal glands, so that our bodies automatically minimize the harm of inflammation. Today, a doctor may prescribe them either orally or nasally. In very rare cases, you might be injected or inhaled with corticosteroids.
Oral Corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids are the most popular ones when it comes to prescription. They can easily minimize the inflammation all over one’s body rather than in one inflamed part of the body. This makes them ideal for combating seasonal allergies like from pollen or eczema among other skin allergies.
You can get tablets or syrups/liquids. The latter ones are perfect for pediatric and geriatric patients who have some difficulties with swallowing pills. For example, Prednisolone is a corticosteroid typically prescribed in a liquid form for many allergic reactions. Read more about it here immunepharma.com/inflammation/prednisolone-omnipred.
Then, oral corticosteroids are great because of their potent formulas which allow taking them shortly only without experiencing any addiction after a long-term intake. Accordingly, it also means that you are less likely to experience many side effects.
Yet, like other medications, you can come across some adverse reactions including anxiety, boosted blood pressure, poor appetite, weakness in muscles. Your healthcare provider will start with prescribing the lowest dose and gradually increasing it until you can experience the best therapeutic effect.
Nasal Corticosteroids
As the name suggests, nasal corticosteroids are medications prescribed to be taken nasally to affect your allergy. They work by minimizing the inflammation primarily in your nose. Logically to assume, compared to oral counterparts they do not have the ability to affect the whole inflamed body parts after the application. Then, such nasal options are not addictive. You should usually take them up for up to 3 weeks to achieve the best therapeutic effect for the allergy. Among the most common side effects, there are irritations in the nose and throat, as well as nose dryness. Fluticasone and Beclomethasone are some of the options to go for.
Extra Considerations Regarding Corticosteroid Intake
You are most likely to understand that even such allergy medications should be primarily discussed with the healthcare providers prior to their intake. So, upon visiting your doctor, you should ask them about the pros and cons of the medications for your particular case. For instance, reveal your full medical history including predispositions to some diseases if they are.
After that, you should learn the risks and solutions to them regarding the long-term intake of corticosteroids. For instance, the following precautions may take place:
- Older people prescribed corticosteroids should overlook their blood pressure, and osteoporosis symptoms;
- Women should overlook their overall wellbeing while taking the medication because they may be at great risk of suffering from bone disease;
- Children may come across stunted growth, chickenpox infections among others;
- Nursing mothers should always take corticosteroids with caution.
After that, you should also familiarize yourself with the interactions. Like other medications, you can face health issues if you are already assigned to a particular treatment protocol. Also, notify your doctor whether you have HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, diabetes, glaucoma, herpes simplex. The same concerns allergic people who smoke and consume much alcohol. In case of abuse, you have to reduce the consumption. For more information on risks, you can also read the labels.
If you are prescribed Prednisolone, you may also face some issues with eyesight, vomiting, and swelling of your legs and arms. Yet, such effects are rare and bear the short-term nature if you follow the instructions and your doctor’s directions.
In conclusion
Corticosteroids are one of the most popular medications to affect allergic reactions in people. They may fit seasonal allergies or the ones that have a chronic nature. For instance, they may be a great solution for eczema. Speaking of the best option between oral and nasal corticosteroids – it is fully up to your doctor to choose one, however, the best effects on the whole body are achieved with the help of oral steroids. Finally, do not mistake them for the steroids abused by athletes, and do always read the instructions and contraindications.