Steroid injections are a common medical treatment used to reduce inflammation and pain in various conditions, from joint issues to allergic reactions. While generally effective, these injections can have a notable side effect: an increase in blood sugar levels. This temporary rise in glucose is a known physiological response that individuals, especially those with or at risk for diabetes, should understand.
How Steroid Injections Influence Blood Sugar
Corticosteroids, the active components in steroid injections, mimic hormones naturally produced by the body, such as cortisol. These hormones regulate glucose metabolism. When administered, corticosteroids influence how the body handles sugar in several ways.
They increase the liver’s production of glucose, releasing more sugar into the bloodstream. Concurrently, these steroids reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a hormone that helps sugar move from the blood into cells for energy. This effect, known as insulin resistance, means cells do not absorb glucose efficiently. This combination can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, sometimes resulting in a temporary condition known as steroid-induced diabetes, even in individuals without a prior diabetes diagnosis.
Typical Duration of Blood Sugar Elevation
The duration and intensity of blood sugar elevation after a steroid injection vary significantly among individuals. Blood sugar levels typically begin to rise within a few hours post-injection, often peaking between 12 to 24 hours. For many, this elevation is temporary, with levels usually subsiding over a few days to about a week.
Specific steroid types have different durations of action. For instance, triamcinolone injections can cause elevated blood glucose for 3 to 5 days, returning to baseline within 5 to 7 days. Oral steroids like prednisone can trigger hyperglycemia within four hours, with effects lasting up to 12 hours, or even 24 to 48 hours. Dexamethasone, another common steroid, may cause blood sugar increases that persist for 12 to 36 hours.
Several factors influence how long and how much blood sugar is affected. The type and dose of the steroid, along with the method of administration, play a role; higher doses or injectable forms are more likely to have a pronounced effect. An individual’s unique metabolism also dictates how quickly the steroid is processed. Individuals with pre-existing diabetes or pre-diabetes, especially those with higher HbA1c levels, are more susceptible to significant and longer-lasting blood sugar increases.
Managing Blood Sugar After a Steroid Injection
Monitoring blood sugar levels is important for anyone receiving a steroid injection, particularly for those with diabetes or at increased risk. Regular checks, such as before meals and two hours after eating, can help track the steroid’s effect and allow for timely adjustments.
Dietary adjustments can also support blood sugar control. Focus on nutritious foods, avoid sugary items, and limit refined carbohydrates to help mitigate the rise in glucose. Proper hydration by drinking plenty of water is beneficial. Engaging in light to moderate physical activity, if medically appropriate, can assist in lowering blood sugar levels.
Individuals with diabetes may require temporary adjustments to their oral medications or insulin dosages. Any such changes should only be made under the direct guidance of a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact a healthcare provider if blood sugar readings remain persistently high after a steroid injection. This includes readings consistently above 200 mg/dL on multiple occasions or any reading exceeding 300 mg/dL. Symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unusual fatigue, or blurred vision, also warrant medical attention.
Always consult your doctor before adjusting diabetes medications or insulin. Seek prompt medical advice if any unusual or severe side effects develop. It is also advisable to discuss existing diabetes or any risk factors with a healthcare provider before receiving a steroid injection.