COVID-19 treatment: What are the do's and don'ts of using steroids?

There has been a considerable increase in the number of critical COVID-19 patients in the second wave. That said, many means, methods and medications have come to the surface to treat people suffering with moderate to severe COVID infections. Steroids have become one of the most common medications given to patients struggling with low oxygen levels or those who are on ventilator support. While experts believe that steroids can prove effective against severe infections, lack of attention to details regarding steroid intake, timing and duration may prove dangerous over time.

Severe COVID-19 infection can cause prolonged and systemic inflammatory response that can damage the lungs and the respiratory system. Steroids are medications which help reduce the inflammation caused by SARs-COV-2 virus. While steroids will not help cure the disease, it will provide relief from certain discomfort caused by the inflammation in the body.

Read more: CT scan and steroids: Not all COVID patients need them

Inflammation is caused when your body's immune system tries to fight off deadly pathogens. In the process of protecting the body, there may occur acute pain, swelling and irritability in certain parts of the body, which when left untreated may have more severe consequences. The role of steroids is to reduce these inflammatory responses. While the steroids may tone down the inflammation, it may induce various side effects.

While steroids are effective in treating COVID-19 infection, it must not be taken naively and without the supervision of a doctor. Given that you have severe infections and your test suggests a high inflammatory response in the body, the doctor may prescribe the right dosage for the right duration. That said, before resorting to steroid usage, here are some key points you must keep in mind.

Read more: COVID-19 treatment: Do all COVID patients need steroids?

One of the most important things to remember is that steroids should not be taken without the prescription of a doctor. While you may feel the need to engage, either due to persistent symptoms and associated discomfort, it is of utmost importance that you consult a doctor. Only a doctor or a medical professional will be able to provide the right dosage for the right duration.

As per experts, the timing, the dosage and the duration play a key role in showcasing effectiveness. Giving steroids too early in the process can lead to prolonged stay of virus in the body. While the patient may feel relieved, over time, it will do more harm than good. Additionally, if the doses are given for a longer period of time, experts believe that it may increase the risk of fungal infections, which is now on the rise in the country.

Once you have started the dosage of steroids, it is important to note that cutting off the medication suddenly may have its consequences. Therefore, experts recommend gradually reducing the dosage. But one must consult their doctor about the same.

The rising number of mucormycosis cases is attributed to pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes and excess steroid use, which is why combining the two factors is all the more dangerous. If a diabetic patient who has COVID-19 is prescribed steroids, they must monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. Keep in close touch with your doctor and convey every change your experience in the body.

Read more: “If you start steroids in a hurry, you suppress your body’s natural immunity”

Some of the long term effects of steroids are listed below.

- Increase in blood sugar levels

- Difficulty in sleeping, mood swings and restlessness

- Feelings of irritability and anxiousness

- Indigestion and heartburn

- Weight gain due to an increase in appetite.