Why Do Corticosteroids Increase Blood Pressure?

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that resemble the natural cortisol hormone produced by a person’s adrenal glands. Doctors may prescribe corticosteroids to treat several medical conditions. Patients may experience an increase in blood pressure while they use corticosteroids.

Corticosteroid Uses

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, physicians may prescribe corticosteroids, also known as steroids, as a main treatment for patients with inflammatory disorders such as systemic vasculitis or myositis . Doctors may treat rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome or lupus erythematosus with steroids.

Increased Blood Pressure

• Steroids such as cortisone can influence the balance of water and electrolytes such as sodium in a patient’s body, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery. Steroid usage may cause fluid retention and result in increased blood pressure.

Reduce Sodium

• Patients who take corticosteroids may reduce fluid retention and lower their blood pressure if they reduce their dietary intake of sodium. Individuals should choose lower-salt versions of popular foods such as soups, chips and canned vegetables that are normally high in sodium.

Monitor Blood Pressure

• People who use corticosteroid drugs should check their blood pressure regularly and see a doctor if they notice increases in blood pressure or signs of fluid retention such as swollen ankles. Doctors may prescribe diuretics or other medicines to reduce a patient’s blood pressure.

Other Side-Effects

• Corticosteroid users may develop a suppressed immune system that results in an increased susceptibility to infections, they may have ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, and they may develop thinning bones from osteoporosis.