Unveiling the Adverse Reactions Epidural Steroid Injections

Unveiling the Adverse Reactions of Epidural Steroid Injections

Your epidural space, the region surrounding the spinal cord and its nerves, can be a source of excruciating back pain and inflammation. To alleviate these symptoms, epidural steroid injections, containing long-lasting cortisone, are administered to the epidural space. These injections aim to provide relief from severe back pain, reduce inflammation and nerve swelling, and alleviate symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and other discomfort caused by nerve irritation or swelling.

While epidural steroid injections offer significant benefits, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks, side effects, complications, and adverse reactions associated with this procedure. Although minor side effects are relatively common, occurring in approximately 1% to 2% of cases and including issues such as minor infections, adverse reactions are much rarer, ranging from 0.1% to 0.01% of injections.

Among the side effects that can arise from epidural steroid injections are a temporary decrease in immunity, cataracts, transient flushing, increased appetite, weight gain, elevated blood sugar levels (particularly in individuals with diabetes), water retention, and suppression of the body’s natural cortisone production.

The occurrence of severe infections stands out as a potentially significant adverse reaction to epidural steroid injections. Although rare, this adverse reaction can occur, particularly in patients with underlying bleeding disorders. Another uncommon adverse reaction is bleeding within the epidural space, which can lead to nerve damage.

Dural puncture, affecting around 0.5% of injections, can result in a post-dural puncture headache, commonly referred to as a spinal headache. Fortunately, this type of headache typically improves within a few days, but in rare cases, a blood patch may be necessary to alleviate the discomfort.

Stomach ulcers and severe hip arthritis (avascular necrosis) have also been reported as potential adverse reactions to epidural steroid injections, although these occurrences are infrequent.

To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, certain precautions should be taken. Epidural steroid injections are not recommended for individuals with local or systemic bacterial infections, pregnant women, or those with bleeding disorders. Additionally, patients experiencing pain caused by tumors or infections should avoid these injections. Allergic individuals and patients taking blood-thinning medications, such as Coumadin, Plavix, and Ticlid, should also refrain from receiving epidural steroid injections. Prior to the injection, an MRI scan should be conducted to rule out potential adverse reactions.

While adverse reactions to epidural steroid injections are relatively rare, it is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients to be informed about their potential occurrence. This awareness allows for informed decision-making and appropriate preventive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals undergoing this procedure.