I received shot in my hip on 8/29 and have slept only 2 hrs, a nite since then. I cannot even work now, job is very physical. Am nervous, shaky,whole body twitches. Finally decided to take Dr. advice and take Xanax last nite ( only 1/2 pill) It did calm me down and help me rest, but now feel out of it, and still shaky. How long does this anxiety, nervousness last? This was my 1st shot. Also am afraid to drive much. Never really took any med but aleve. Just want to know how long these effects typically last.Also, don't have much appetite, just nervous eating. All my doctors tell me they have never seen this happen before. ( I really don't believe them) Also, should I go to cardiologist or neurologist ? ( having some chest pain and numbness in left arm) I don't want to take much of the Xanax, says it may be addictive, and don't need more side effects. Help
Corisone shot injection side effects, how long do they last? 9 days now?
Question posted by eice on 7 Sep 2011
Last updated on 31 August 2024
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
137 Answers Page 8
So glad I found this thread. I am on week six after a steroid injection for a sinus infection that wouldn't seem to go away. It was the first real medication I had had in probably two years since I am extremely into natural health. It has been hell since. It is just now starting to get better, and my sleep has just started to improve over the past few weeks. The first two weeks were the absolute worst with extreme anxiety, insomnia, heart palpitations, etc. I have also since developed horrible health anxiety, googling symptoms constantly that I'm not even sure I have. I've also seen two other doctors since then including my internist for blood work, which was all perfect. I had some anxiety before the shot, but it has been so so so awful since then. My mother died a year ago, and upon approaching the year anniversary a week ago, my anxiety kicked in to the point where I was having multiple panic attacks.
I am also just now starting to feel a little bit like myself again. In other words, the past six weeks I feel like I have been in a fog. I went on a weeklong beach vacation with my son, father, and best friend, and could not enjoy myself for the anxiety. I have done some things to help such as taking a magnesium supplement which definitely does help, changing to a more clean diet, forcing myself to exercise through the anxiety, and just staying busy. I'm also relying on my faith and prayer, and praying that all of this is over really soon and I feel like myself again.
So glad I found this thread as well. I'm only going on a week after my SI joint injection and I have had the same symptoms. I feel like I am having a heart attack and it's scary, heart racing at times, major anxiety, sweating, etc. My job is already so stressful so this isn't helping any. I am sorry to hear about your loss. Added stress does not help. Interesting about the magnesium, I have read that in several posts. Hope you are doing better, prayers to you!
On January 9, 2018 I was given a steroid injection and an antibiotic shot when I went to the ER with possible bronchitis while I had the flu. I was also given a prescription for an oral steroid and antibiotic which I did not take. The only prescription drug I take is a daily low dose of thyroid medication. I'm 66, but in pretty good health - not diabetic, no high blood pressure, and take a 45 minute brisk walk almost every day. About a week after the steroid injection, I started feeling extremely weak, light headed and shaky. It would get worse if I tried to do anything like house keeping. Week two I started having anxiety, lack of appetite and stomach issues while still feeling weak in my lower body. I've never had anxiety or depression and it is just the most awful, horrible experience. I had tingling in my feet and hands for 2 days, and now at week 4,. I still have it off and on, but milder.
I was surprised that my family practitioner said the steroid is probably causing the anxiety and the anxiety is causing the tingling. From what I found out on the internet, the steroid affected my adrenal system and it takes a while for it to leave your system. I'm on week 5, have good days and bad days, but hope this goes away soon. I take a probiotic, try to eat a more clean diet and still go for a walk, weather permitting. I have not taken any prescription medicine for the anxiety, but try to stay focused on something, take a walk and drink a warm non caffeine tea.
JJ33 - are you still having symptoms? If not, how long did it take to get back to being yourself again?
dzorra, are you any better? What dosage was your steroid? I am looking for glimmers of hope and was disheartened to see you were still having issues. Please let us know how you are doing.
All the best.
I first posted on here in July 2017. It is now December 2018, and I’m wanting to shed some light on this situation and give some hope to those who are feeling hopeless. My life is very very different than it was when I first posted. In a good way! I received the steroid injection in May of 2017, and the next four or so months were an absolute living hell for me. I had severe panic attacks and health anxiety, heart palpitations, developed TMJ and acid reflux, worried constantly about my health, and even went to he ER four times, and countless other doctors visits. My primary care doc even prescribed me Xanax. I had never taken anything like that! I also went through two straight weeks of insomnia. I’m talking sleeping only one to two hours a night... for two straight weeks. It was truly all a nightmare and I lived in a constant state of anxiety. Now here’s the turning point. I somehow managed to push through the horrendous anxiety and constant worry.
I started eating clean, I took walks, swam, forced myself to go to work and to do fun things with my son, get out of the house, etc. In August of 2017 I met the man who is now my husband. He just so happens to be a therapist (he wasn’t MY therapist, but was ironic that I met someone who knew so much about anxiety during that time in my life!). He was of great help through that dark time. Between him, prayer, and faith, things started turning around. I started feeling more like myself again, and pretty soon I stopped having panic attacks and the severe anxiety completely. It has now been over a year and a half and I feel like me again. I am also 37 weeks pregnant with a baby girl. I just wanted to offer some hope to all those who feel that they will never be the same. You will. Hang in there.
JJ33 - Thank you so much for returning and commenting after you got better. I'm just past 11 weeks and I still have really bad days. I read through all these posts at least once a day as it's basically the only thing my hope is hanging on.
Congradulations on the baby. Glad you made it through this.
I am also thankful I found this post. I got an SI joint injection two weeks ago and my anxiety (which I had previously) is amplified. The smallest thing will throw me on the verge of a Panic Attack. I wasn't told any of the side effects, other than soreness around the injection site. I feel like my heart is trying to beat out of my chest, and I get palpitations (which I've never had previously) if I even get the tiniest bit stressed. I am saddened that it may take months to return to normal. I feel it's a struggle to go to work everyday because I feel on the verge of a panic attack. Doctor prescribed some Valium, to help with these symptoms, but I just want things to go back to normal.
Hang in there it does get better ,but takes time ,Praying for you BCase93 from Lost In Az
Lost in AZ, did your tinnitus get any better?
I still have it ,i have adjusted to it somewhat ,but at times mostly nights its annoying ,
So glad I came across your post. I thought it was just me lol. I had an SI joint injection only a week ago and granted I feel it has helped my pain, but I never thought I'd be having such ridiculous side effects. The dr. makes them seem so simple and small. Ha! I have had the same things you've experienced. For now, I just try to relax, either take a benadryl, an anti-anxiety drug or a muscle relaxer just to take the edge off. Hope it doesn't last too long! On top of this I am going through menopause so it sucks LOL!
I'm 27 years and had a knee injury back in Dec 21 2016. I got a cortisone injection Jan 31 2017 and it worked within 3 days after. The effects started when this voice came in my head and I became nervous that night and went to bed to sleep it off hoping it was a negative thought that would go away during my sleep and wake up refreshed. I was wrong, It came back when woke up and my nerves got bad because I couldn't get out my head. I had mood disorders, depression, anxiety,
auditory hallucinations, and panic attacks. This lasted two weeks which was the worst. It's been 4 months now and I'm still having the same disorders but not as bad the first two weeks. I'm still having auditory hallucinations, and as of now my nerves back to being bad but then I have good weeks where it seems most of the symptoms are gone. Most of the time it's like living in a dream world.
I pray and hope to god that all of this ends it feels like i'm losing my mind but I haven't lost it in the first place. I don't to take anymore meds because I'm someone who don't normally take medicine and stay away from it. Exercising, drinking lots of water, juicing, and lots of social activities with family and friends help. I just hope this does not do permanent damage and i'm like this for the rest of my life. I read the cortisone steriod can stay in you from 6-8 months.
It's been about 8 months since my shot, the first 4 months were the worst. I am now about 99 % back to normal with an occasional off day for no reason. Reach out to close friends, family and your place of worship. I read the Psalms over and I over. Another women's post encouraged me that this does gets better over time and it did. You can get through this! Much love❤️
Warren36 thank you so much for replying. I really needed to read from somebody who reached normal status. I'm hanging in there and eventhough this bring alot of negative thoughts but I have better data every now and then. I'm still positive that I'll make through without the need of meds. May god bless you.
Thank you, may God bless you also. I will be praying for you daily. This will get better!
It does get better. Stay strong and once its out of your system you will be back to normal.
Thank you matt1972.
Hi all Post shot almost 2 years still have a few residuals but doing a lot better ,Praying for all it does get better hang in there ,and God Bless
Lost in AZ, so glad to hear you are doing better! I've been praying for you. God bless you!
I'm 11 months after the shot - feeling so much better . Some depression left on occasion ( never had any before the shot ) and terrible allergy to cold . Phoned the manufacturer and they assured me all symptoms go away after 18 months . Can't wait !
Warren, thank you so much for the encouragement. Thank you too, for your posts, Lost in AZ. Its been 14 months and I'm still having migraines and some severe anxiety/shakiness, but I'm encouraged that this will pass eventually. I just have to wait it out. I'm glad you are both feeling better and it's helpful to know I'm not the only one who have reacted this way and symptoms WILL go away.
Warren, did your tinnitus go away?
The last few weeks have been super rough. I've had a very painful and constant headache that seems to coincide with crippling anxiety, shakiness, and depression. Going on 15 months and doesn't seem like my symptoms are getting any better. It's been a hard ordeal.
Moon9 Hang in there. I'm just starting 7 months and now I feel about 90% of myself. Exercising, drinking lots of water, staying away from sugar, low salt, and being active with family and friends has helped me to sustain sanity. Praying a lot has helped me as well. This gets better but sometimes it seems worst but just know it is not you it is the medicine. It took me a while to realize that. I have good days and sometimes bad but the good outweighs it all. Hang in there, you will beat this. Keep telling yourself that.
Thanks to all of you for sharing your experiences with steroids and their debilitating side effects. I'm so glad I found this site. It gives me hope that I may be my normal self again one day. I got my one and only steroid shot (dexamethasone) about a month ago in the ER along with an antibiotic shot. I had the flu and thought I might have gotten bronchitis along with it. A few days later, I started feeling weak, shaky and light headed. A few days after that, the anxiety and stomach problems began. I have never had anxiety and am not one to take a lot of medication. I am trying to just get through this, but sometimes it's really tough. I try to eat healthy, drink water and limit caffeine. I take a walk or try to focus on something when I feel anxious. I have good days when I think I'm over it and then I will have a day where the anxiety and other symptoms return. It's so frustrating, but it helps to read all of your comments and I hope all of you are on your way to feeling like yourself again. I will never, ever get another steroid shot!
I had my shot in my knees yesterday and I want to say that it's probably the 10 shot per knee and I always have side effects even though many doctors/Rn's and othe patients say they have no problems.
I have had anything from pain,hot flashes/chills, racing heart, cramps in my thighs, HORRIBLE restless leg symptoms and my knees always balloon almost twice the size with in 12. Now my knees are so sore, swollen and achey but I'm also fighting with they jumpy/crawling restlessness so I can't win what ever I do. I am so sick of these shots because it takes over a week to recover then I go back in 3 months for 2 more its so bad I needed my cane today I would stop them and the stupid $400 x 2( both knees)lubricating shots every 6 months but I'm 32 and I need a total knee replacement but I'm not old enoug so I will just keep doing what they say so they can't throw it in my face that I didn't do what they suggested.
There was a silver lining yesterday and my surgeon has fast tracked me to get a partial replacement (patella femoral arthroplasty) done in 3 months time because it's distroid I'm in Canada and the normal wait time is 1.5 years to get in for the surgery so at least things are moving in the right direction.
I hope you recovered well for your shot.
I never go t a bad reaction to it from food but others might. Doctor put me on Vitamin D3 and it works for me. If I stop taking it I start to feel weak again. I take 1 a day. I hope this helps. Also you could try magnisium. Ive heard that is good if you feel tired all the time. Ive started doing weights again so definitely the D3 tablets have helped me. Take care everyone and dont give up.
Thanks so much for your reply, Matt.
I have bought some magnesium tablets after some research and I've been just taking half a tablet every other day because I didn't want to introduce something new into my body that it might struggle with!
Thanks for recommending D3 - I'll look into it.
It's really really hard at times, but I just keep telling myself this is just temporary and my body's natural reaction to a foreign drug. It will get out of my system and my body will be ok again!
I didn't think the injection had worked because my shoulder was still so painful. But now, 4 weeks on, I can feel my shoulder has actually improved. So it wasn't a complete waste afterall!
Matt, I'm glad you've started doing weights again and I hope you continue to improve.
Hi Lou. Glad you have some relief from your shoulder pain. Hope you keep improving. Ive found having enough water every day also helps. It will get better. It just takes time. Im glad the shakyness and twitching has stopped for me and aspecially the weakness. My doctor subscribed me Desunin 800iu tablets to take 4 once a day. I then bought some D3 (cholecalciferol) called Health4All on ebay 5000iu and I either take 1 a day now or a couple a day. All the best. Matt
I had a 40mg. cortizone shot for poison ivy. 6 days later I was in the ER with a heart arrhythmia, and hyperglycemia. The MD said it was directly related to the cortizone shot. I'm scheduled to see a cardio MD. Told it will stay in my system for 3 months. Learn about this before you just take it.
I'm very glad to have found this site and feel comfort that I'm not alone! I had a cortisone injection 4 weeks ago and the side effects have knocked me sideways.
Does anyone find that certain foods or drinks are making you worse?
I've found that drinking a cup of tea can make my heart feel like it's pounding and I feel like I have adrenaline rushing through my blood. It could be the caffeine or because I have half a teaspoon of sugar in my tea.
I cooked chili last night and while I was eating, I had to same increased adrenaline feeling. I wonder if that was because the chili was spicy which causes my temperature to increase?
I'd be grateful to hear if anyone is having anything similar. I'm trying to drink loads of water every day.
Hi Lou , I had my shot in August 2016 and it changed my body's reactions to many things : sugar especially and salty or spicy food . I get dizzy when starting to eat ( I think it's part of developing hypoglycemia after the shot ) but the worst is my new cold urticaria . I did love snow skiing , now I break out in blisters after exsposure to cold . Very frustrating. I hope and pray that things will return to normal . Be very patient- It takes a LONG time . Good luck to all !
I'm glad that I have found this thread... just wish that I had found it before my cortisone shot. I had my one and only last week in my left hip for an labral tear and a FAI. I was told that I received Marcaine and Betamethosone. Immediately when I got up from the table, I felt a terrible burning running up my GI tract. Later at home, I had the most horrible pain in my right chest and over my should to my back. I couldn't move my arm. I also felt like I had a terrible case of heartburn and a horrible headache. I could barely sleep from all the pain and discomfort.
The next morning it was still bad. And added to it was a hot sensation running up my back into the base of my head. My voice was extremely strained and I couldn't speak well. I called the Ortho's office and was told to get home to 50 mg of Benadryl and Excedrine Migraine with a Mountain Dew. If I didn't feel better in 24 hours, I was suppose to go to the ER.
Six days later now, my symptoms are better but still present. I am not sleeping well, feel loopy, trouble concentrating and more tired than usual. The headache is still nagging and the tightness in my voice/chest is still there. Do these adverse reactions last as long as the cortisone is still working in your body? I just fee like a slug. I haven't been taking the Benadryl daily because I need to go to work.
In my opinion, yes the symptoms do persist until the steroid is out of your system. I'm at 5 1/2 months and most of the symptoms are gone, except for tinnitus and occasional mild anxiety which I never had before. I also had shakiness, heart palpitations, insomnia, hot flashes and depersonalization. It is the worst thing I have ever experienced. Gracefully, most of the symptoms have subsided.
Can anything be done to help the symptoms? My chest tightness is very bad this morning.
I went to several doctors, including a cardiologist after going to the ER. The response was always the same, the steroids will just need to get out of your system. For me that was almost 5 1/2 months. Have you been checked out by your dr?
yes in my experience im stilling having side effects 1 1/2 years later ,Yes I still have tinnitus and i still have Anxiety which I never had before the steroid shot ,Hang in there it does get better ,It did change my life as i know it I now wear a Medical Bracelet that says NO STEROIDS they are not a cure for anything and I have autoimmune problems so It attacked alot more than normal Prayers with you !
Lost in AZ. I hope you are doing better. I prayed for you many times when I was going through my own difficulties. I hung onto words from another member who said it got better little by little and the symptoms subsided.
Thank you everyone. It's just reassuring to know that I'm not "crazy". I have not followed up in person with my doctor... just the call the day after the shot when it was bad. I had a colon resection done in 2008 after two perforations in 11 months. I have been in pain since that surgery and I know the doctors think I am nuts. Come to find out... this FAI was clearly visible in an xray 4 years ago, but the radiologist didn't mention it. Now I have the labrel tear and an orthopedic telling me "at my age, the repair surgery is difficult". I'm only 54. I'm sitting here now after being at work for almost 9 hours and don't even have the energy to get up and go home. My head feels like it weighs 50 pounds.
Thank you for the prayers.This was one evil drug ,I pray for everyone that has had to go thru what we all have .
I am a 44 y o male. I had an injection 20 days ago in the base of my thumb joint and I am feeling shaky and twitchy with weak legs and dry skin on parts of my body. Has anyone else had weak legs? I went to the doctors about my symptoms 4 days ago and forgot to mention about the injection I had and he didn't mention it either or check my past medical notes. He asked if I took protein powder or injected but I don't. I had blood tests and will get the results in 3 days.
mark1972 ,i had weak everything ,it is the steroid , it sucks, like the rest of us Im sure the doctor did not tell you what the possible adverse side effects could be . Hang in there and know your not alone Prayers to you
sorry Matt1972 not Mark 1972
Lost in AZ,
That you have had anxiety for over a year and a half is concerning to me. It's been a year since I had a shot of kenelog and I'm still having headaches, severe anxiety, and weakness/shakiness. Are you still experiencing symptoms as of now? Have you found that your symptoms are gradually going away month by month?
Moon9,
I know you addressed your question to Lost in AZ, but I wanted to encourage you. I had a severe reaction. It was terrible, including severe anxiety, shakiness, hot flashes, insomnia, heart palpitations, etc. I went to several doctors and tried everything including a vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy free and caffeine free diet. I lost 45 pounds and ultimately it just took time. After 8 months I would say 99 % of the symptoms were gone. I did walk a lot up to several times a day to help flush the steroids out of my system. I also drank herbal tea and water as much as possible. I wish you the very best, it does get better. I read Bible verses especially Psalms for encouragement.
Much love!
T
I have not commented on this site for quite some time. I have reread some of the recent posts and my heart goes out to all those who are going through this nightmare. Quickly, my story: 2 corts. shots in both knees Nov. 2016. I have been prone to anxiety in the past, but have not been on anything for several years. After corts. shots, all hell broke lose... extreme anxiety, depression, weakness, chest pain, dizziness, heart palpitations, rapid heart rate, double vision, feeling "out of it", no concentration (most caused by anxiety, which makes you more anxious). Made 3 trips to the emergency room as I thought I was having a heart attack. Blood pressure spiked. Today I must tell you I am much better. I am taking the minimum amount of Lexapro. It has helped me immensely. During this cort. episode, I was taking 2 xanax daily. That small dose is not addictive. Trust me. It will help you. Take it. Yoga on you-tube for anxiety... do it.
Exercise, walk, swim, anything you can, whether you feel like it or not. Stay away from caffeine. Take care of yourself. Read up on anxiety. The more you are aware, the better you will feel. Doctors don't tell you anything. See a therapist. My long term solution was Lexapro, as I am prone to anxiety (and menopause). I do not take xanax any more and I was not addicted. I took it for 5 months and weaned myself off, with no side affects. Incredible how ortho surgeon and my doctor were unaware of these reactions to cort. and not much help with anxiety other than take xanax. I printed off pages of this site to show them. Praying for all of you. Hang in there, it will get better, but it is hell, I know. I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy. Just be proactive and your own advocate. Knowledge is powerful. Do your research. This too shall pass.
Hello, I'm not a health care professional but I have been in pain management for 21 years.. For every year I've had around 30 injections, in all major joints, plus trigger point injection, nerve blocks, ablations, plus 40 botox injections in the head and neck every 3 month's for the last 6 years.. I have a certain amount of steroid injections a year, sometimes I feel more anxiety, but I also have P.T.S.D and nerve damage to both arms.. If you have any anxiety issues the steroids in the cortisone shot can sometimes make your anxiety worse for a time.. It makes mine worse for a few hours, but I have been getting those shots for decades. I take a couple ativan 2mg and it calms down.. I have been taking the max dose of ativan almost every day, sometimes 4 times a day for 8 years and am not dependent and definitely not addicted.
some days when I don't need the ativan I don't take any..They are right about the xanax you are probably on a low dose, so don't worry as long as you don't take high doses every day for a year or more and you won't have any problems with dependency, not addiction.. Your body becomes dependent and needs the meds... There is a difference between dependent and addiction look it up please.
You just started the meds so you might be a little more sensitive.. Also if your anxiety gets worse you Might get a bit shaky...
Hope It helped..
I'm in the same situation, but my only two symptoms are a very mild headache and tinnitus (ringing in my ears). I had a couple cortosteriod injections a couple years ago and didnt have any side effects. Then I got a cortosteriod injection on October 12th 2016 in my right shoulder for a stiff joint. Within 48 hours after the injection, I noticed my ears were ringing and I had a very mild headache. It is now almost nine weeks after the injection and I still have the mild headache and ringing ears. They are both very mild, but both constant - so irritating. I'm 47 years old. I know my body and I know this is not normal. I'm convinced these symptoms are side effects of the cortosteriod injection. Is anyone else having these same symptoms after getting one of those stupid injections? I'd love to know how long this will last, or if it can possibly last any longer than the benefits of the injection would last???
Mine lasted about 100 days, my doctor prescribed an anti-anxiety Med Clonazepam which I'm now in the process of tapering off of. I told her repeatedly that it was the steroid. I wished I had not started it. Be cautious and look up any drugs your doctor prescribes when you know it is the steroid which will wear off with time.
17 months post shot still have ringing ears 24/7 screaming and anxiety never again will i ever get any steroid shot never had either before shot
Are you feeling better?
Did anybody lost a lot of weight ? Since my injection 4 months ago , terrible panic attacks , anxiety and horrid weight loss .
Yes I've lost 40 pounds
Muscle weakness ? I can hardly walk . I feel like my body consumed my muscles .. was fit and running before the shot .
I also had panic attacks that I did not have before the shot. The anxiety is sometimes there, but much better. I'm tapering off the anxiety Med. I also got a worse back injury after the shot which I think contributed to the thoracic disc issues. Be careful, take it easy until this passes.
I also am trying to wean off the Ativan with the help of my therapist ,My anxiety is still there but a bit better .1 and half year post shot, This shot is POISON ,My life as I knew it will never be the same
Good luck everyone - it's good to know we are not alone . My husband feels impatient, my family thinks I have gone mad - I just want my life back ! anxiously waiting for this stuff to leave my body ...
I'm at about 4 months, just now feeling like myself. It's been a long road and now I have a serious back injury. I advise everyone with this to stay put at home until this passes. I didn't, I tried to work and do physical therapy and ended with a serious injury. God bless you all and keep you safe. It will get better.
Did your tinnitus ever reduce or go away?
Hi Aubrey- how long did your tinnitus last? I’m going on 6 weeks since the steroid and it’s still here
I had an injection in my hip Tuesday 10/25/16 at 0900. I had a steroid flare with excrutiating pain by 4pm,and couldmt walk. anxiety set in the next day along with heart palpitations. pain finally resolved Friday sometime after noon. still feel heart race occasionally. last night (10/29) I had abdominal cramps (charlie horse-like) while sitting in a chair studying, then insomnia ALL night even after melatonin and later a pain pill. I strongly believe it's related to the steroid injection.
I had an injection this morning and now I'm in so much pain back and excruciating cramps. Should have read all these comments first. I would never have gotten the shot. Anxiety is very high not good for my blood pressure. My poor pets I'm sure think I have gone totally bonkers. Thank you all for your input.
It gets better with time. I'm at a 100 days and still have symptoms, but they are better. Hang in there. It's not you, it's the drug. Keep telling yourself this. It will get better.
How are my out doing? It will get better.
I'm having the exact reaction. how long does this take to go away. feel depressed for not reason. nervous, can't think clear. I feel like crawling under a rock and dying but I can't because I have responsibilities. My family and my job. the medication i took was dexamethasone injection. the doctor gave it to me because i was going through a bad cold or virus and had body aches. stupid doctor never warned me.please help!
Seems like everyone is different, but mine lasted for about six weeks, growing less severe as time went on. Unfortunately, the chiropractor was checking out my thumb joints (my injection site) recently and released more into my system... For a few days it was like being in hell again...
I hope you feel better soon.
Hello all: I too thought I was losing my mind. I had facet joint injections on Both sides of my lower back on 4 levels. This was 4 days ago. Since then I haven't slept at all, rapid heartbeat, horrible anxiety, mood swings, and headaches just to name a few. I am miserable and at a loss for what to do. I was told nothing about the injections by my doctor and am not even sure which exact steroid he injected me with. I was forced into doing this procedure by my pain management group because if I refused they would kick me out and I would no longer be able to receive the meds that actually help me. At a loss for what to do... I have two young children and I can't even get up off the couch long enough to make then lunch without the high heart rate and feeling like I'm going to pass out. I will never do this again... ever! I haven't even gotten any relief from it!
I gets better over time, I hope you're doing better.
Hope you are doing better! Please let us know how you are doing :-)
Evening Eice
I'm very greatful that you have asked such a question as you've gathered some brilliant replys. I was searching for Cortisol effect on Mental Health and I had no idea the high risk or I wouldn't be fearful sat hear.
I was suicidal from 9 years old till 43 years at which point I had a full hysterectomy. Every day of my life was about holding on and fighting. I've tried to explain it to health providers but no one grasped the extent of it or the instant end and peace that came to me once my Ovaries were gone. So I can say with full conviction the 2 incidents that have made my mind go down that route again have both been Cortisol injections . 1 was only 3 months ago, I couldn't understand where that nights horrible journey came from but I do now, as tonight I'm walking the same path. I had a knee injection on Tuesday at 4 it's now Wensday Night at 9.
On one hand I'm very lucky to know how to process these thoughts of despair and worthlessness because if this is landed in someone's lap who doesn't then the out come could be a very sad one. 2 deep life threatening relapses in 8 years! if that's not proof enough I don't know what is. So I'm so deeply appreciative of this question as these past 3 months my depression has been stronger than normal and I thought I was loosing the battle ( not suicidal which lasted one long night) . Last week I was just starting to make a break through and now I've gone and had another. The lack of awareness at this destructive drug is horrendous and damaging to many. I had learnt very quickly with my mental health that you have to be your own advocate, where money rules everything . so you have to defend and monitor and look after number 1. I would never have thought a Cortisol injection could be so damaging km truly gobsmacked. All i can add is to everyone reading who is going through this, there is a future it does and will subside and i would have thought the quicker the disconnection from the Cortisol the better. Im going to Herb my smoothies, drink lots of water, work out and flush that junk out of me as quick as possible when my knee is healed. I'm also a believer of hormone digestion by microwaved packaging. If your suffering from one over load of hormone don't risk slowing down the detox by not research and start to get rid. An immune system back logged with man made rubbish is slow and poorly one what an awful thought so give yourself helping hand as best you can. Thanks all for sharing your experiences I may not sleep well tonight but I'm going to sleep with much more hope and ambition than i thought I would before I stumbled in here.
HI JJ, I'm so glad that what I spoke about in relation to the cortisone side effects was able to help give you some answers as to how you are feeling. I know, it was really scary to me, too, people just brush you off. And you have to look on your own for answers.Some things about modern medicine are so frustrating! Lots of relaxing herbs helped me as well as acupuncture (it really relaxes you!)
There seem to be so many medicines that have side effects that affect your mental health. They always seem to say they are rare. But if they happen to you, they aren't rare! Plus, 1% could be a significant number. 1% of 100,000 people is how many?
It took me weeks, but gradually, the feelings subsided, so there definitely is hope.
I have had a recent very bad side effect of an antibiotic. Cipro . These belong to a group called fluoroquinolones. They are seriously toxic to many people, but drs. prescribe them like candy.
If you get a chance, research this, & you will see thousands of people are affected. The physical & mental damage is very long lasting, debilitating & can be permanent is some people. So, please, if you are ever prescribed an antibiotic, research it before you take it & if you have questions, ask for something else.If you ever remember taking Cipro, Levaquin, Avelox , etc. this may be part of your lifelong problem. Most drs. are ignorant of the si de effects, or just in the business of selling the drugs & following "protocol". I guess they expect the patient to do all the research...
HI JJ, I'm so glad that what I spoke about in relation to the cortisone side effects was able to help give you some answers as to how you are feeling. I know, it was really scary to me, too, people just brush you off. And you have to look on your own for answers.Some things about modern medicine are so frustrating! Lots of relaxing herbs helped me as well as acupuncture (it really relaxes you!)
There seem to be so many medicines that have side effects that affect your mental health. They always seem to say they are rare. But if they happen to you, they aren't rare! Plus, 1% could be a significant number. 1% of 100,000 people is how many?
It took me weeks, but gradually, the feelings subsided, so there definitely is hope.
I have had a recent very bad side effect of an antibiotic. Cipro . These belong to a group called fluoroquinolones. They are seriously toxic to many people, but drs. prescribe them like candy.
If you get a chance, research this, & you will see thousands of people are affected. The physical & mental damage is very long lasting, debilitating & can be permanent is some people. So, please, if you are ever prescribed an antibiotic, research it before you take it & if you have questions, ask for something else.If you ever remember taking Cipro, Levaquin, Avelox , etc. this may be part of your lifelong problem. Most drs. are ignorant of the si de effects, or just in the business of selling the drugs & following "protocol". I guess they expect the patient to do all the research...
I was given a steroid injection in my neck. 4 days after, I experienced SEVERE insomnia, I was up almost 40 hours, darn near delirious!! Then I had racing pulse rates as high as 130 dropping down to 40. My heartbeats were pounding through my ears. I had SEVERE tremors, blurred vision, inability to focus, dizziness, high anxiety due to the symptoms. I had 2 weeks of diarrhea, & a 13 lb wt loss in less than 2 weeks. I went to the ER twice & was extremely disappointed. I was diagnosed as palpitations & anxiety. I was a VERY healthy person at age 66 working out with a trainer, before all of this started. I finally had to go to the ER a third time. I refused to go to RMC, because I was treated as though I was some kind of a "Fruitloop". My PCP also kept telling me it was "anxiety". I would constantly tell him I've NEVER had, nor EVER been diagnosed with symptoms of anxiety, and that's not what it is.
I went to the Dr who ordered the injection, & he said, "well I don't think it was the injection, you seem very " anxious", do you have a history of anxiety?" I wanted to slap him. I felt so humiliated. Finally it hit me, and I don't know why I did not think of it earlier. I went to the ER where I had worked for 20 years as a trauma nurse, and retired. I will proudly say, It was Denver General ER, now called Denver health. I went to the ER, and within 10 minutes, the ER doctor said, "you are having an adverse reaction to your steroid injection. She had neurology see me. 2 different ones came down & both said almost immediately, "You are having a severe adverse reaction to your steroid injection." They listened to me, they did not judge me as an "anxious fruit loop" due to my symptoms. I had already had the symptoms for 3 weeks, & neuro said it might be another month. 2 employees then entered my room to tell me their experience after a steroid injection. I thought my symptoms were severe, theirs made mine look like nothing. One of them was placed in psych for 1 week, until they realized She had a bad reaction to her steroid injection. It makes me furious have doctors try to minimize the side effects of steroid injections. They are quick to say side effects are minimal to zero, and when you do have an adverse reaction, the first thing they want to assume is that you are a "fruit loop." Thank God there are sites like yours where people can post their experiences with steroid injections. I've come across NUMEROUS complaints similar to mine. I wish there was more that could be done concerning these doctors who want to minimize what these injections can actually put someone through.
im still having adverse side effects 13 months since the shot
Thank goodness you were able to get a straight answer and diagnosis. I've been there and know what you've experienced is real and it's hell. It's been over 3 months since my injection. I'm MUCH better but still have anxiety- nothing like I had 8-10 weeks ago, but enough that my PCP prescribed .25 mg Xanax when needed. I'm having about 1 panic attack a week. The nausea is gone and the dizziness is very infrequent- maybe once a week and short lived. Hang in there and know there's an end in sight.
I know this is a very old post, but I was just wondering what they were able to do for you.
I am going through the same thing right now 7/20. It started out of the blue on night 9 days after the injection. The heart palpitations don't stop. What did they put you on? I can't take the racing heart! - T
I AM EXPERIENCING SAME THING!!
Thought I was going crazy until I found this site. I had a steroid injection in my hip 2 1/2 weeks ago. Since then I have been having bad low blood sugar attacks, anxiety, mood swings, and perhaps most troubling, feeling sort of disconnected mentally. The only time I've felt this weird in the head was years ago when I was prescribed thyroid medication for hypothyroidism, which it turned out I didn't have. I felt drunk any time I ate and disconnected from reality. It sounds like steroids affect hormones (adrenals/cortisol among others) so I'm guessing that's why I feel so messed up.
I had two steroid injections in my back before, one last December and another in January, with no negative reaction. Turns out they used a different steroid this time. On my hip I received kenalog, but my back injections were depomedrol.
I am also on Wellbutrin and I'm wondering if there could be a bad interaction. Of course, like others here, my Dr. and pharmacist said they had not heard of this.
I PRAY this doesn't last as long as others have said.
Hope what I've shared can help someone else.
I agree- steroids definitely affect hormones- I'm 58 and post-menopausal and I was severely affected for months my my cortisone injection. kem59901, I also had some blood sugar swings in the early weeks after the injection- especially in the morning. That lasted a few weeks and finally settled down. The physician who administered the shot told me it stays isolated, however my internal medicine doc said that's simply not true... she was confident my symptoms were from the injection (which at least helped my sanity) and told me to give it 2-3 months to settle down. I also called my pharmacist who said the symptoms were in line with the cortisone injection but added that my anxiety was taking on a life of it's on after the shot. I hope everyone is beginning to get some relief from this experience.
To update, I started feeling better (less depression, anxiety, fewer low blood sugar attacks, less hunger) after about 7 weeks. It's been 9 weeks since the injection now and I finally feel like myself again.
I have lost so much weight ( although eating more ) also my leg muscles are very weak . I can hardly walk ...
I do understand what you are going thru I have the same exact symptoms and this premature ventricular contractions didn't start until after I had the cortisone injection back here in February 2016 I do know if you already have stress the injections will make it worst I know my body and I've had these injections in my foot in the past and it has never given me heart palpitations I had a EKG a week ago and that's when they told me I had PVC I had a EKG in 2015 when I had foot surgery and my heart was fine I do know the cortisone injection will slow down your metabolism which affects hormone imbalance which can cause anxiety my doctor confirmed this because I had heard the injections causes weight gain but it slows your metabolism down.
I had to get on Xanax as well and I'm not into taking medicine because of all the known side effects that they can cause I started taking turmeric a natural Herb and it gets rid of pain when you get a chance Google the benefits of turmeric, also potassium and magnesium will help with the premature ventricular contractions (PVC ) along with CoQ10. I researched PVC and it's harmless and can be cured with proper diet and some lifestyle changes.. Hope this was helpful
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