Steroid injections are a common medical treatment used to alleviate inflammation and pain. These injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory corticosteroids directly to affected areas like joints or tendons. While effective for conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis, they can cause side effects. For some, these include psychological changes, with anxiety being a reported concern.
Why Steroid Injections Can Cause Anxiety
Corticosteroids, synthetic versions of the natural hormone cortisol, can influence the central nervous system. They affect the balance of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which regulate mood and anxiety responses.
Elevated cortisol levels from the injection can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the body’s primary stress response system. This disruption can lead to an imbalance, manifesting as agitation, insomnia, and heightened anxiety. Corticosteroids may also increase glutamate levels, further contributing to feelings of anxiety.
How Long Anxiety Typically Lasts
The duration of anxiety following a steroid injection varies among individuals. It typically resolves as the corticosteroid levels decrease. For many, symptoms are transient, often subsiding within a few days to a couple of weeks. Peak effects, including anxiety, often occur within the first 24 to 72 hours after the injection.
Several factors influence how long anxiety might persist. These include the specific type and dosage of the corticosteroid, as stronger or higher doses may have a more pronounced impact. Individual metabolism, the injection site, and pre-existing conditions like a history of anxiety disorders can also affect symptom duration and intensity.
Strategies for Managing Anxiety
Managing anxiety after a steroid injection often involves non-pharmacological approaches. Deep breathing exercises, like the 4-7-8 technique, can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms. Mindfulness meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are also beneficial for calming the nervous system.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports overall well-being and can mitigate anxiety. This includes adequate sleep, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, and consuming a balanced diet for better mood regulation. Light physical activity, if appropriate and advised by a healthcare provider, can also help. Open communication with trusted individuals provides emotional support.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a healthcare professional if anxiety symptoms are severe, debilitating, or worsen after a steroid injection. Seek medical attention if anxiety is accompanied by alarming symptoms such as panic attacks, extreme agitation, or thoughts of self-harm. These instances may indicate a significant reaction requiring medical assessment.
Contact your doctor if anxiety persists beyond the typical timeframe of a few days to a couple of weeks. This allows for personalized advice, helps rule out other causes, and enables treatment plan adjustments if necessary.