Coughing Up Answers: When Are Steroids Prescribed for a Cough?
That persistent cough can be more than just annoying – it can disrupt sleep, make eating difficult, and even cause chest pain. When an ordinary cough medicine just isn't cutting it, you might wonder if something stronger, like steroids, could be the answer. While it's true that steroids can be powerful tools in the medical arsenal, they're not a one-size-fits-all solution for every cough. Let's unpack when steroids might be considered for a cough, how they work, and what you should know about their use. What Are Steroids (Corticosteroids) and How Do They Help a Cough? When we talk about "steroids" in the context of cough treatment, we're usually referring to corticosteroids. These are not the same as the anabolic steroids used by athletes. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that mimic hormones naturally produced by your adrenal glands. Here's how they can help with certain types of coughs: Reducing Inflammation: Many coughs ar...