Can steroids make cellulitis worse? (+5 tips)

In this article, we will explore whether steroids can make cellulitis worse or not, how steroids make cellulitis worse, what factors contribute to the worsoning of cellulitis while taking steroids and what to do if steroids make cellulitis worse.

Can steroids make cellulitis worse?

Yes, steroids can make cellulitis worse in some individuals. However, the effect of steroids might not be the same for every individual taking them. Certain other factors also influence the condition of cellulitis in addition to steroids.

Steroids are of various types. They can be anabolic steroids that mimic the action of testosterone and may be used for building muscles or other conditions such as hypogonadism (1). Steroids are also available as corticosteroids that are used for conditions like asthma where the anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive response of steroids is required (2).

If you are taking steroids for any of your conditions and are concerned about the side effects of steroids on cellulitis then you need to have detailed communication with your healthcare provider to satisfy all your queries or concerns. 

How do steroids make cellulitis worse?

Cellulitis is a skin infection and steroids particularly corticosteroids cause immunosuppression as its primary effect. This could weaken the body’s response to cellulitis and may worsen the condition already existing in the body (3).

Corticosteroids are also known to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Cellulitis is a skin infection that is characterised by swelling, pain and redness (4). Corticosteroids can inhibit all the inflammatory actions of the body and this could delay the diagnosis of cellulitis making the condition worse due to no timely treatment (5).

Corticosteroids also have a common effect on fluid retention. The increased fluid retention can cause an increase in tissue pressure and may worsen the inflammation associated with cellulitis (6). 

What factors can contribute to the effects of steroids on cellulitis?

Several factors can contribute to the effects of steroids in patients suffering from cellulitis. These factors may include the following.

• The type of steroids you are using
• High dose of steroids 
• Strength of the immune system
• Underlying medical health conditions
• Concurrent medications
• Genetic variation
• Nutritional status
• Age 
• Individual sensitivity

These factors cause the variation of effects of steroids among different individuals. Not every person taking steroids will experience the same effects due to all these factors contributing to it. 

What to do if steroids worsen cellulitis?

If you are taking steroids and you are suffering from cellulitis then there is a high risk of your condition worsening. If your condition worsens after starting your treatment with steroids then you need to consult your health provider. They will guide you to do the following:

• Your doctor might suggest you discontinue the steroid treatment if any worsening of cellulitis is observed as cellulitis is a serious infection and needs immediate treatment.

• Your doctor may have to take blood samples and perform various tests on the infected area for culture.  

• Your doctor may suggest some antibiotics orally or intravenously depending on the condition and the detected bacteria. 

• Your doctor will have to make the necessary changes in your treatment plan to tailor it according to your requirements.

• Your doctor will ask you to rest the affected limb along with warm compresses to promote healing. 

• Immobilization of the affected limb is necessary to make the condition better. 

• Your doctor will have to monitor your condition after this treatment plan to keep track of the symptoms or signs that may appear. This is necessary to determine the progress of the treatment. 

In my experience

In my experience, there is a high possibility of steroids worsening the condition of cellulitis in patients taking steroids for any of their medical conditions. There are various effects of steroids that can contribute to the worsening. If you are on steroids treatment then you need to have open communication with your healthcare provider.

You need to inform them about any medical condition you might be suffering from or any medication you are taking already so that your doctor can make an informed decision to ensure a safe and effective treatment strategy.

References