Does Steroids Cause Diabetes?

Steroids are commonly used to treat various medical conditions. They effectively reduce inflammation, control immune responses, and manage chronic diseases. However, prolonged steroid use can lead to serious side effects, one of which is diabetes.

In this article, we will explore the link between steroids and diabetes. We will discuss how steroids affect the body and increase blood sugar levels. 

What Are Steroids?

Synthetic substances called steroids are made to look like the body’s natural hormones, such as cortisol. They are divided into two primary categories and are recommended for medical purposes:

Corticosteroids are used to treat autoimmune diseases like lupus arthritis, and asthma as well as inflammation.

Anabolic steroids Professionals and wrestlers abuse anabolic steroids, which are used to increase the size of muscles.

How Steroids Work in the Body

Corticosteroids reduce the immune system, which lowers inflammation. They effectively treat severe autoimmune illnesses, asthma, and allergic responses. They also affect the capacity of the body to control blood sugar, unfortunately.

Steroids can increase the liver’s capacity to produce glucose, a type of sugar. Also, they could reduce the body’s cells’ sensitivity to insulin, the hormone that regulates the transfer of sugar from the blood into cells. Blood sugar levels can rise sharply as a result of this combined action, raising the risk of diabetes.

Steroid-Induced Diabetes:

One kind of diabetes that arises after using corticosteroids is called “steroid-induced diabetes.” People without a history of diabetes can get it. In some cases, it can worsen already present diabetes.

Depending on the dosage, duration of usage, and general health of the user, steroids can cause both temporary or chronic diabetes. After stopping steroids, some patients may experience an improvement to normal blood sugar levels, while others may need continuous diabetic care.

Who Is in Danger?

Steroid-induced diabetes can happen to anyone using steroids, but some people are more sensitive than others. These consist of:

• People who have diabetes in their family.
• Those who are obese or overweight.
• Senior citizens.
• Those who live dead lives.
• Those with extra medical disorders, such as hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.

When using steroids, it’s important to keep a careful eye on your blood sugar levels if you fall into any of these categories.

Symptoms of Steroid-Induced Diabetes

Steroid-induced diabetes shares many of the same symptoms as other forms of the disease. Urinary retention and extreme thirst are typical symptoms.

• Fatigue and low vitality.
• Blindness.
• Abrupt weight reduction.
• Increased appetite.

See your doctor right away for testing and advice if you have these side effects after taking steroids.

How Diabetes Is Caused by Steroids

The following are some ways that steroids may impact the body and raise the risk of diabetes:

Enhanced Production of Glucose

High blood sugar levels are induced by steroids causing the liver to release more glucose into the circulatory system.

Insulin Resistance

Steroids reduce the body’s response to insulin, which stops sugar from accessing cells and leads to blood sugar increase.

Decreased Insulin Secretion

Long-term usage of steroids can harm the digestive system, which is responsible for making insulin, which leads to decreased insulin levels.

The risk of developing diabetes is raised by these combined effects, which disrupt normal blood sugar management.

Can Diabetes Be Caused by Short-Term Steroid Use?

While short-term steroid use is less likely to result in diabetes, blood sugar levels might still rise temporarily. This is especially the case for people who are already at risk because of their lifestyle choices or family history.

Doctors often monitor blood sugar levels closely in patients undergoing short-term steroid therapy. If blood sugar levels rise significantly, the treatment plan may be adjusted to minimize risks.

Managing Steroid-Induced Diabetes

If you develop steroid-induced diabetes, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition effectively:

1. Monitor Blood Sugar

Regularly check your blood sugar levels using a glucometer to track changes.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar.

3. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Take Medications as Prescribed

If your doctor prescribes insulin or other diabetes medications, follow the instructions carefully.

5. Discuss Alternatives

Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments or lower steroid doses if side effects are severe.

Long-Term Effects of Steroid Use

Steroids are powerful drugs, but long-term use can lead to several complications. These include:

• Weight gain and muscle weakness.
• Osteoporosis (weakened bones).
• High blood pressure.
• Increased risk of infections.

When steroids also lead to diabetes, managing both conditions can become even more challenging. This is why doctors carefully weigh the benefits and risks of steroid therapy.

How to Prevent Steroid-Induced Diabetes

By following these guidelines, you may reduce your chance of getting diabetes caused by steroids:

• For a short period, use the lowest dose of steroids that is helpful.
• Continue eating a healthy, low-sugar, high-fiber diet.
• Regular exercise can help with blood sugar regulation.
• If you already have prediabetes or are at risk, keep a check on your blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Many medical diseases can be effectively managed with steroids, but there are dangers involved. The development of diabetes is among the most dangerous dangers. Because steroids change how the body uses insulin and glucose, they cause blood sugar levels to go up.

While steroid-induced diabetes is sometimes transient, some people can turn it into a chronic illness. Risks can be reduced by keeping good health through blood sugar tracking, regular exercise, and a balanced diet. For advice specific to your situation, always ask the advice of your healthcare professional.

FAQs

Can type 1 diabetes have been brought on by steroids?

No, type 1 diabetes is not brought on by steroids. Steroid use has zero to do with type 1 diabetes, which is a form of autoimmune disease.

How soon may blood sugar rise by steroids?

Depending on the amount given and individual reaction, steroids can cause blood sugar levels to rise within hours of the first injection.

Can diabetes be brought on by taking steroids?

Compared to pills or injectable steroids, inhaled steroids have a lower risk of inducing diabetes; however, continuous high-dose use may still raise the risk.

Are there other options for steroids?

Indeed, biologic procedures or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) could be good replacements. Talk to the doctor about these alternatives.

Is diabetes put on by steroids permanent?

It may be short-term or long-term. After dropping steroids, blood sugar levels can go back to normal, but some people may need continuing diabetes care.