Steroid therapy involves the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, commonly used in conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. While effective, it can lead to side effects such as weight gain, osteoporosis, and increased infection risk, necessitating careful management and monitoring.

Steroid Therapy

Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex, used primarily to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various medical conditions. They play a crucial role in managing conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases, but their long-term use can lead to significant side effects.

Corticosteroids

Reduce inflammation

Suppress the immune system

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Effective management typically involves avoiding triggers, monitoring lung function, and using medications such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators to control and prevent symptoms.

Asthma

Arthritis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It encompasses over 100 different types, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each with distinct causes and treatment approaches.

Arthritis

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. These diseases can affect almost any part of the body and are influenced by genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Autoimmune Diseases

Side effects refer to unintended consequences of an action, often seen in pharmaceuticals where they are secondary effects of a drug apart from its intended therapeutic outcomes. Understanding side effects is crucial for evaluating the risk-benefit profile of interventions and ensuring patient safety in medical treatments.

Side Effects

Weight Gain

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It is often asymptomatic until a fracture occurs, making early diagnosis and management crucial for preventing bone loss and associated complications.

Osteoporosis

Increased infection risk refers to the heightened likelihood of contracting infectious diseases due to various factors such as weakened immune systems, exposure to pathogens, or environmental conditions. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures are crucial in mitigating these risks and protecting vulnerable populations.

Increased Infection Risk

Careful Management

Monitoring is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and using information to track the progress of a project or system and ensure that it is on course to achieve its objectives. It involves continuous observation and measurement of various parameters to provide feedback and facilitate informed decision-making for improvement or correction.

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