Reactions to Steroid Injections

A steroid injected into the body is referred to as a corticosteroid. The most common corticosteroid used for injection is synthetic cortisone, which helps to relieve pain by reducing inflammation. Patients who are administered steroid injections usually have an inflammation problem that is not widespread, such as bursitis, arthritis and allergic reactions. Even though steroid injections can be quite helpful, some patients do experience side effects.

What Is a Corticosteroid?

According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), corticosteroids closely resemble the natural hormone "cortisol" that is produced by the human body. Corticosteroids are fast-acting and can control an overactive immune system that is triggering inflammation. Corticosteroids can be taken orally, topically, inhaled, injected or administered intravenously.

Pain

The most common reaction to a steroid injection is pain that occurs around the injection site. This type of reaction is known as a steroid flare, and is only temporary. The American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine (AOSSM) states that a steroid flare presents itself when a small amount of the steroid crystallizes within the already inflamed area, causing further pain. The steroid flare can be easily treated with cold packs.

Infection

Whenever a needle punctures the skin, there is always the risk of infection. This is especially true if the skin around the injection site was not prepped with alcohol prior to the steroid injection. Orthopedic Surgical Consultants (OSC) explains that because steroid medications suppress the immune system, a steroid injection should never be given at a site that is already showing signs of infection. Doing so can cause an infection to spread to other areas of the body.

Skin Discoloration

Spine Health reports that sometimes a steroid injection will cause the skin to whiten around the area of injection. This is especially true in people who have a darker skin tone. The condition usually resolves on its own but can last for a few months.

Blood Sugar Increase

Diabetic patients may experience a spike in blood sugar after they receive a steroid injection. According to Diabetes Australia-NSW, steroid injections can block the effects of insulin and cause the liver to release higher than normal amounts of glucose into the bloodstream. Physician intervention is necessary to help control rises in blood sugar.