I’m on a cortisone awareness crusade. There is so much ignorance surrounding its use and how it can affect bipolar disorder symptoms. I’ve had two cortisone shots in the past few years and both times they caused profound depression and a spike in hypomanic episodes. On both occasions my doctors assured me that the dose was very small and localized- thus it should not affect my moods. This was unfortunately not true. Here is some information on the drug: Cortisone is a corticosteroid hormone (glucocorticoid). It decreases your body’s natural defensive response and reduces symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions. This medication is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, allergic reactions, certain skin and eye conditions, breathing problems, and certain cancers. **
I used the cortisone for a serious hand injury I couldn’t get to heal. I talked about the side effects pretty thoroughly with my doctor- he was understanding, but still felt it would stay localized in my hand. It was my choice to give it a try and I regret that I did. After three months of mood swings, including one that included a lot of aggression, I know that I don’t want to take cortisone again- no matter how small the dose. Not everyone responds in this way of course, but all people with bipolar disorder need to be educated on its use. If you or someone you care about is faced with a decision to use cortisone, think carefully about how it may affect moods. I tend to be very reactive to medications, so people like myself have to be extra careful. It’s also up to us to educate doctors on how to use it correctly with people who have mood disorders. No matter how small the dose or how localized, it can and often does cause mood swings. Join my cortisone awareness crusade!
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