A patient diagnosed with bronchial asthma is treating with corticosteroids. Expected side effect will be?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Osteoporosis, obesity, immunosuppression

Rationale:

Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that are used to reduce inflammation in various conditions, including bronchial asthma.
While effective in managing symptoms, long-term use of corticosteroids is associated with several side effects, including osteoporosis (weakening of bones), obesity (weight gain), and immunosuppression (reduced immune system function).
Osteoporosis occurs because corticosteroids can decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption.
Obesity can result from the increased appetite and changes in fat distribution caused by corticosteroids.
Immunosuppression is a significant side effect as corticosteroids can inhibit the immune response, making patients more susceptible to infections.

Explanation of Other Options:

Sore throat, mouth dryness & ulcer

Rationale: These symptoms are more commonly associated with inhaled corticosteroids rather than systemic corticosteroids. They can occur due to the local effects of the medication on the oral mucosa and throat.

Bitter taste, dry mouth, dry cough

Rationale: These side effects are more typical of inhaled bronchodilators such as beta-agonists rather than systemic corticosteroids. The bitter taste and dry mouth can be due to the formulation of the inhaler.

Headache, vertigo, nausea & vomiting

Rationale: While these symptoms can occur with many medications, they are not the most common side effects of corticosteroids. They may be seen with other medications used to treat asthma or related conditions.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the most likely side effects of systemic corticosteroid treatment for bronchial asthma are osteoporosis, obesity, and immunosuppression. These side effects are significant and can impact the long-term health of patients, necessitating careful monitoring and management.