Anti-Inflammatories for Lung Conditions
Anti-inflammatories are drugs that are used to reduce swelling and inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the process in which the body’s immune system deals with infection, injury and harmful substances. Doctors use steroids to treat many health conditions, including lung conditions.
The steroids (corticosteroids) used to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other chronic lung diseases are synthetic drugs that are similar to cortisol, a substance the body makes naturally to fight inflammation.
Other types of anti-inflammatories include non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), which are more commonly used to treat joint pain and arthritis, and anabolic steroids, a synthetic form of the male hormone testosterone used and abused by some athletes to improve performance.
Primary care physicians and pulmonologists, or lung specialists, may prescribe anti-inflammatories to address lung diseases or conditions.
Anti-inflammatories with steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are prescription medications typically used to reduce inflammation in the airways or lungs. Lung inflammation may happen in one or both lungs and can be the result of infectious causes such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, or non-infectious causes such as an allergic reaction or asthma. Other health conditions, stress or allergens may also contribute to inflammation. Anti-inflammatories with steroids treat lung conditions by reducing inflammation and mucous production in the airways or lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Lung inflammation can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Depending on the cause of the inflammation, a doctor will determine the length of treatment with an anti-inflammatory.
Inhaled steroids are used extensively for chronic lung diseases because they help with inflammation which can cause long-term damage to the lungs.
Inhaled steroids can improve lung function, symptoms and flare-ups, and improve quality of life by addressing inflammation in the airways and lungs. The medication eases the symptoms created by the swelling and narrowing of the airways to help you breathe better. Steroids do not cure asthma or COPD, but can help improve lung function, limit flare-ups, and reduce respiratory symptoms.
Some of the most common steroids include:
- Prednisone
- Cortisone
- Hydrocortisone
- Methylprednisolone
What to Expect When Using Anti-Inflammatories for Lung Conditions
Steroids are strong anti-inflammatory medications that can quickly reduce inflammation, relieve pain and calm the immune system. They work by slowing the production of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
Steroid medicines can be inhaled with an inhaler, which delivers the medicine directly to the lungs, or in pill form, which allows a higher dose than inhaled steroids. Treatments for lung inflammation vary based on the cause of the inflammation, whether it is acute or chronic, and the severity of illness.
What to Expect After Using Anti-Inflammatories
Anti-inflammatories can help with inflammation or manage other related symptoms such as pain, breathing difficulties, infection, congestion or fever. Some chronic forms of lung inflammation, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma can be managed with anti-inflammatories.
Medications to treat causes of lung inflammation are effective depending on your specific condition and how soon you receive treatment.
Steroids are used to reduce swelling and mucus in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Steroids for people with asthma and COPD are most often inhaled, delivering the medicine directly to the lungs for the best effectiveness. Oral steroids in pill form are also an option. Oral steroids might be prescribed for treating more severe respiratory symptoms.
Your health care provider will determine the best option and dosage of steroid based on your symptoms.
Side Effects of Using Anti-Inflammatories for Pulmonary Conditions
Anti-inflammatories with steroids (corticosteroids) carry a risk of side effects. Inhaled corticosteroids (steroids) taken with an inhaler rarely cause serious or long-term side effects. Talk to your provider to take steps to control their impact. The most common side effects include:
Side effects of inhaled corticosteroids include:
- Thrush (a yeast infection of the mouth)
- Cough
- Hoarseness
- Bruising
Oral steroids are given at a higher dose and affect the entire body. Side effects may include:
- Bruising
- Cataracts
- Weight gain
- High blood sugar levels
- Osteoporosis
- Swelling in the ankles or feet
Contact your health care provider to discuss any side effects you experience while taking steroids.
Primary care physicians and pulmonologists, or lung specialists, may prescribe anti-inflammatories to address lung diseases or conditions.