How to protect your heart while on steroids?
Long-term use of steroids can have negative effects on the heart. This article provides tips on how to protect your heart while on steroids, including following your doctor's instructions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Steroids are known to have negative effects on the heart, including increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke, particularly with long-term use. However, there are some steps you can take to help protect your heart while taking steroids.Taking steroids for two or more years may have permanent effects on the heart, based on a recent study of 140 male weight lifters. Published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, this study looked at the effects of long-term steroid use on the heart.
Here are some tips:
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Follow your doctor's instructions: Take steroids only as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor. It is important to take steroids only as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use, and do not stop taking steroids without first consulting your doctor.
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet that is low in salt, sugar, and saturated and trans fats.Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking can all help reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle while taking steroids
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Monitor your blood pressure: Steroids can raise blood pressure, so monitor it regularly and report any high readings to your doctor.
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Watch your cholesterol levels: Steroids can also increase cholesterol levels, so ask your doctor to monitor your levels and prescribe medications or dietary changes as needed.
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Avoid excess alcohol: Alcohol can interact with steroids and increase the risk of heart problems.
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Reduce stress: Stress can also increase the risk of heart disease, so try to find ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or relaxation techniques.
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Get regular check-ups: Make sure to get regular check-ups with your doctor, who can monitor your heart health and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
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Consider non-steroidal alternatives: Depending on your condition, there may be alternative treatments to steroids that carry less risk of heart problems. Talk to your doctor about whether other options, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or physical therapy, may be appropriate for you.
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Keep an eye out for warning signs: If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of heart problems, seek medical attention immediately.
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Be aware of drug interactions: Some medications can interact with steroids and increase the risk of heart problems. Make sure to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.
By following these tips, you can help protect your heart while taking steroids and minimize your risk of heart disease and other health problems.It is important to remember that while steroids can be highly effective in treating certain conditions, they also carry risks. By following your doctor's instructions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, monitoring your health, and being aware of warning signs, you can help protect your heart while taking steroids.
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