Cortisone shots are a common medical intervention, often utilized to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in various parts of the body. These injections deliver a type of medication known as corticosteroids, which are synthetic versions of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands. Healthcare providers frequently use them to manage conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and general musculoskeletal pain. Many individuals wonder about the broader effects of these shots, particularly concerning their impact on blood sugar levels.
The Immediate Effect
Cortisone shots lead to a temporary increase in blood sugar levels. This effect can be observed in individuals with and without a pre-existing diagnosis of diabetes. It is a recognized, temporary side effect, and this elevation in glucose can occur within a few hours following the injection.
The blood sugar increase peaks between 24 to 72 hours after the shot. It is a notable physiological response to the medication. Awareness of this potential change helps individuals anticipate and understand their body’s reaction.
How Cortisone Influences Blood Sugar
Corticosteroids, including cortisone, affect glucose metabolism through several pathways. They reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which is the hormone responsible for helping glucose enter cells for energy.
Cortisone stimulates the liver to produce more glucose, a process known as gluconeogenesis. The liver releases this newly formed glucose into the bloodstream, contributing to higher blood sugar concentrations. Cortisone also impairs the utilization of glucose by peripheral tissues, such as muscles and fat cells.
Corticosteroids can influence the pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for producing and releasing insulin. These steroids may inhibit the beta cell response to glucose, potentially leading to a reduced release of insulin. The combined effect of these mechanisms leads to an increase in circulating blood glucose.
Factors and Duration of Blood Sugar Changes
The duration and magnitude of blood sugar elevation after a cortisone shot can vary among individuals. Blood sugar levels may remain elevated for several days, ranging from 3 to 10 days.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or prediabetes are more likely to experience a significant increase in blood sugar. Patients with higher HbA1c levels before the injection, which reflects average blood sugar over several months, tend to have greater blood glucose increases. The dosage and frequency of the cortisone injection can also influence the impact on blood sugar levels, with larger doses potentially leading to more pronounced and prolonged effects.
Strategies for Blood Sugar Management
Individuals receiving cortisone shots can take proactive steps. Monitoring blood sugar levels is a practical strategy, particularly for people with diabetes, who may need to check their levels more frequently, possibly four times daily. This close monitoring helps identify any significant increases and allows for timely adjustments.
Dietary adjustments can also support blood sugar management. Temporarily reducing carbohydrate intake might help mitigate the rise in glucose. Staying well-hydrated is beneficial for metabolic health. Engaging in regular physical activity, if medically appropriate, can assist the body in utilizing glucose more effectively. Communicating with healthcare providers before and after the shot is important, especially for those with diabetes, as medication dosages may need temporary adjustment to manage the elevated blood sugar.