Corticosteroids: What They Are, Treatment Methods, and Side Effects
Corticosteroids are naturally synthesized hormones in the human body. Deficiencies in corticosteroids can lead to various medical conditions. Patients may exist where an adequate amount of corticosteroids is not synthesized within the body. However, complete absence of corticosteroid synthesis is not possible in a healthy body. In recent years, corticosteroid replacement therapy has emerged as a highly effective solution for such patients. This is because the role of corticosteroids in the immune system and the body's self-repair mechanisms is undeniably crucial.
Cortisol: The Synthetic Form
In cases where corticosteroids are not produced adequately within the body, synthetic hormones with corticosteroid structure must be administered externally. The synthetic form of corticosteroids, which cannot be synthesized within the body but is taken externally, is called cortisol. There might be misconceptions in popular usage regarding corticosteroids and cortisol, with some erroneously perceiving corticosteroids as having more negative effects. However, cortisol therapy provides significant treatment opportunities alongside its negative effects. Like any medication, corticosteroid treatment may have minor side effects. The effects of corticosteroid treatment can be controlled as long as regular doctor check-ups are maintained and post-treatment recommendations are followed.
Understanding Cortisol and Its Functions
Cortisol is a hormone produced in the outer layer of the adrenal glands called the cortex. Cortisol is one of the natural hormones formed as a result of a series of biochemical reactions that use cholesterol as a raw material. Two different groups of hormones are produced by the adrenal cortex. These are glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. In the glucocorticoid group, there are hormone-derived products called cortisol and corticosteroids. Glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosteroids affect the body's protein and carbohydrate mechanisms. Corticosteroids are actually the inactive form of cortisol. After corticosteroid production, it is processed in the liver to obtain cortisol, the active form. Therefore, in the treatment of many diseases, cortisol, the active form, is administered to the body.
Applications of Cortisol
Cortisol directly affects the pathway in the body where protein and fat molecules are converted to glucose. Before treatment with cortisol, it naturally increases blood sugar levels in the body. In times of hunger, consumption of low-calorie foods, or simply when the brain signals hunger, cortisol intervenes by producing glucose from stored fats and then from stored protein molecules. In this way, cortisol normalizes low blood sugar levels.
Uses in Medical Treatment
In recent years, an important discovery in treatment has been another mechanism of cortisol use based on the functioning of the immune system. Immunologically, drug preparations containing cortisol and corticosteroids are lifesaving for patients. Corticosteroid treatment is an indispensable invention for diseases that are considered untreatable and chronic, affecting different organs of the body. The reasons for resorting to corticosteroids in the immune system are generally conditions requiring immunosuppression. Corticosteroids can be used lifelong in some diseases or in cases where the transplanted organ is perceived as foreign tissue by the body.
Diseases Treated with Cortisol
Cortisol is the primary drug used in many chronic and life-threatening diseases and acute conditions. Therefore, considering the place of cortisol in most diseases, it has effects that reduce the mortality rates of diseases according to their side effects. Sometimes cortisol may be recommended for short-term use, while in other cases, it may require lifelong use.
Managing Corticosteroid Side Effects
When corticosteroids are prescribed or when patients are told that they need to use corticosteroids for life, side effects are the first thing that comes to mind. However, the side effects of corticosteroids are tolerable effects when considering the permanent effects of the diseases they treat. To maximize the benefits of corticosteroid use and minimize side effects, patients should choose a suitable diet and exercise routine for treatment.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have any health concerns or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or clinic, for proper diagnosis and treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
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