After this, risk increases. Some people still may realize more benefits than risks. These amounts of corticosteroids should only be used when clearly necessary because of the chance for side effects and serious problems. Nevertheless, corticosteroids at this dose have saved many lives and have prevented countless people from serious disease complications. This is used only in exceptional circumstances, usually in a hospital setting and only for the very short term.
Most side effects are predictable and related to the dose.
Some side effects occur in almost anyone who takes them. At first, most of the weight is water retention only, but as time goes by, corticosteroids also may increase your body fat. Corticosteroids also will increase your appetite. Anyone with a history of heart trouble or swelling in the legs should consult his or her doctor, since corticosteroids could affect such conditions. Some people find that corticosteroids make them feel more positive and uplifted while others feel sad, anxious, or depressed.