Steroids are drugs that are often given with chemotherapy to help treat Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. They can also help you feel better quickly. Side effects
In most cases, steroids for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are given for short periods with chemotherapy. The side effects may include increased appetite, stomach upset, feeling more energetic, and difficulty in getting to sleep. It is better to take steroids as early in the day as possible. Take them no later than 4 o’clock in the afternoon if going to sleep is a problem.
If you have to take steroids for some time, you may have some other temporary side effects. These may include puffiness of the eyelids, hands, fingers and feet and raised blood pressure. You may also be at a slightly higher risk of getting infections. You may develop an increased level of sugar in the blood. If this happens your doctor will prescribe treatment. This will need to be taken daily to bring your blood sugar back to normal. Your doctor may also reduce the amount of steroids you are taking.
Sometimes treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma involves taking steroids for a long time. If you do, you will notice that you put on weight, especially on your face, waist and shoulders. Your face will fill out and appear more rounded. It is important to remember that all these side effects are temporary and will gradually disappear as the steroid dose is reduced.
You may also have a lowered resistance to infection. Try to avoid close contact with people who have colds, flu or any kind of infection while you are taking steroids. Doctors recommend that if you have been taking steroids for a while it is better to come off them slowly. This will allow your body to slowly get used to not having them anymore. The sudden withdrawal of steroids could make you feel unwell.
Your doctor or nurse will explain your steroid medication to you in more detail. You should always carry a card with you stating that you are taking steroids. This information would be very important if you suddenly became ill.
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