Steroids side-effects
Steroids are often used to help manage some of the symptoms of brain tumours and their treatments.
Often, steroids are prescribed to help reduce swelling around your tumour, particularly after neurosurgery or radiotherapy. This can help reduce headaches, sickness or nausea and seizures.
The steroids used during brain tumour treatment are NOT anabolic steroids, which are used by some athletes to build muscle.
What are the side-effects of steroids?
As with many medications, steroids affect different people in different ways. The effect will also depend on the type and dosage of steroid prescribed for your child.
Please remember your child should NOT stop taking steroids without advice from their doctor.
Side effects of steroid tablets can include:
- indigestion or heartburn
- increased appetite, which could lead to weight gain
- difficulty sleeping
- changes in mood and behaviour, such as feeling irritable or anxious
- an increased risk of infections – especially chickenpox, shingles and measles
- high blood sugar or diabetes
- high blood pressure
- eye conditions, such as glaucoma.
Get your free brain tumour information pack
Our FREE Brain Tumour Information Pack has been designed to help you through this difficult time, to guide you through the healthcare system, answer your questions, and reassure you that you’re not alone so that you feel confident when discussing treatment and care options with your medical team.
Unfortunately, we’re currently unable to send Information Packs by post. All the information contained in the pack can be found in the email you’ll receive after completing this form.
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