Use of Prednisone for Inflammation

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There are a number of inflammatory conditions that can pose a great risk to your health and/or cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can combat the inflammation that occurs in many of these different diseases. These inflammatory conditions include asthma and arthritis.
Prednisone is the generic term for the drug. According to GI Health, other brand names are Deltasone, Meticorten, Orasone, and SK-Prednisone. Corticosteroids work by replicating the actions of the hormones that naturally occur in the body. The adrenal glands typically produce these hormones, including one that is known as cortisone. Cortisone regulates the balance of salt and water in the body and can decrease the amount of inflammation one experiences. Prednisone is made to mimic the symptoms of this hormone and can suppress the inflammatory response.
The adrenal glands naturally create an amount of steroids that is equal to 5mg. of Prednisone daily. By making the body think that it has more of this through the use of Prednisone, a further reduction in inflammation can occur. This helps combat the diseases that cause inflammation.
Prednisone is typically taken at breakfast. The exact amount you are prescribed will depend on your medical condition and the response you exhibit. The lowest effective dose should be used.
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are serious side effects associated with Prednisone. The more Prednisone you take and the longer you take it, the worse the side effects are. It is important to be aware of these.
Weight gain is one of the most common side effects. Patients may find that they are hungrier. This weight may settle on the face and the back of the neck. Exercising and avoiding salt, fat and simple carbohydrates may help combat this. Prednisone can also raise blood sugar. This is especially concerning for those suffering with or at risk for diabetes. Your risk of osteoporosis may also increase with Prednisone.
Other possible problems associated with Prednisone include digestive problems, mood swings, skin problems, avascular necrosis, eye disorders such as cataracts and glaucoma and a weakening of the immune system. Other side effects can also occur.
Be sure to diagnose the benefits versus costs of utilizing this drug for inflammation. In addition, it is important to be under a physician’s care when changing your dose or stopping Prednisone since it can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Prednisone can provide great relief to many suffers, however it must be taken with care. There are both advantages and disadvantages, and you must be sure to follow all instructions on the correct usage of the medication. Be sure to contact the doctor with any questions or concerns.