Posted on 2 November, 2011
Can steroids treat cancer? This question has been in the minds of many people especially since it has been associated with athletics and bodybuilding. Those used in the treatment of cancer are not similar to the anabolic type because it is naturally generated from the body and is known as corticosteroids found in adrenal glands above the kidney. This version helps the body in various ways such as effective metabolism, balancing of water and salt levels in the body, minimization of inflammation and allergies as well as management of the behavior and mood. To answer the question can steroids treat cancer, there are different types of these elements that can be used in the treatment, and they include Prednisolone, methylprednisolone and Dexamethasone. These help in the treatment by decreasing the nausea that comes with chemotherapy and exposure to radiation. They also help in chemotherapy by killing cancer cells and reducing tumors while at the same time reducing swelling, allergic reactions and headaches that are associated with brain tumors. The doctors will prescribe the treatment in different ways. One of them is by taking a tablet where the patient will be required to take it after meals or with milk to prevent irritating the stomach. The doctor may also prescribe them as a syrup or dissolvable tablet, as an injection into a muscle or into a vein and as a cream. Whichever the way used, the patient should know that the dose and length of the treatment varies as per the stage of the condition and other factors. For effective treatment, patients should take the treatment under the guidance of a doctor so that they can monitor any changes. Patients are also advised not to take double dose if they have missed one instead they should consult with their doctors for proper guidance. They should also ensure they tell doctors that they are under the treatment in case they are being treated for other conditions. They also need to inform the doctor if they are taking other forms of medication so that they can determine if they will have adverse reactions with the treatment. Although they are used in the treatment, they come with some side effects. Some of the side effects include indigestion or heartburn, increase in appetite, increase in weight, alteration in the levels of blood sugar, swollen limbs because of water retention and changes in the mood and behavior. These side effects can be mild or severe and their progression will depend on the patient's general health, the number of times they have taken treatment, the amount and other drugs. Some of these side effects may need treatment or reduction of the dose to prevent them. Patients should stop the treatment when the doctor tells to them to, because the body has to readjust and start producing the steroids on its own. The doctors will reduce the dosage instead of suddenly stopping the treatment. |
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