Can Steroids Cause Constipation?

Steroids are a class of powerful drugs that are used in patients for various conditions, including inflammation, allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, and even chronic pain.

While quite effective in the treatment of various pathologies, they most often have numerous side effects. The possible side effects that may arise in a patient’s system include constipation.

In this section, we shall take a closer look at why steroids cause constipation, how it occurs, and how one can try to manage the condition.

Why Do Steroids Cause Constipation?

Steroids are synthetic drugs that resemble cortisol-a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands in your body. Though medications like prednisone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone effectively suppress inflammation and quiet the immune system, they also interfere with many of the digestive processes.

One of the key ways steroids can cause constipation is by affecting the body’s fluid balance. Steroids can make your body retain sodium and lose potassium; this can result in dehydration. When your body is dehydrated, your stool can become dry and hard to pass.

Furthermore, steroids can weaken the muscles in the intestines, leading to a decrease in the movement of the intestines. The slowing down of the movement of stool through the digestive tract could result in constipation.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Constipation from Steroids?

Not everyone who takes steroids develops constipation. But some people are more likely to have it. You are more likely to have it if:

• You are on the steroids for a very prolonged period.
• You have had problems with your digestive system, including irritable bowel syndrome.
• You are taking a high dosage of steroids.
• You are not drinking enough water or eating enough fiber.
• You are less physically active.

It can also lead to increased constipation in older adults and persons with other chronic conditions due to the administration of steroids.

When Should You Be Concerned About Constipation?

While occasional constipation is normal, you should call your doctor if you have any of the following:

• Acute abdominal pain.
• Blood in your stool.
• Not having a bowel movement for more than 3 days.
• Nausea or vomiting.

These could be symptoms of something worse that needs medical attention.

Conclusion

Yes, steroids can indeed cause constipation among a segment of users, especially in cases of continuous use over time or with large dosage levels.

Steroids, when working within your body, affect the level of fluids inside your body and decrease the speed with which the bowels move.

It is usually treatable by mere alterations to your life: an increased amount of water intake, addition of high fiber food to your diet, and daily exercise can help reverse or minimize the constipation related to taking steroids.

Symptoms pertaining to this can be brought to the notice of a physician for higher consultation.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic