Asthma, Steroids, & Menopause
I am a 55-year-old woman going through menopause and I have suffered from asthma since my childhood. I was doing better until 2020 when COVID hit. I have caught COVID a few times and my lungs have never been the same. I have been on 2 steroid inhalers for the past 4 years and when allergies hit, I usually have to go on a prednisone treatment. I recently went for a dexa bone density exam and even though I don't have osteoporosis, my bones are getting weak. After doing research and talking to my doctor, "steroids" came to the surface. I really find myself in a conundrum - I cannot function without my "steroid" inhalers but at the same time my bones are getting weaker. I'm aware of supplements and diets to help out with the latter condition but I was quite surprised to find out about how long term use of steroids affect our bones, especially during menopause!
Hi.
Thank you for sharing your asthma experience here. I'm sorry to hear that you're dealing with asthma. I understand your point about steroids; they play a important role in helping us asthmatics maintain good control over this condition. Unlike systemic corticosteroids, which are used to reverse severe symptoms, inhaled steroids are generally considered safer in terms of side effects such as osteoporosis. This is because the medication is directly inhaled into your lungs where it's needed, rather than being taken orally or injected, which would introduce the medication into your entire system. So, this may be a good topic to bring up with your asthma doctor—who knows you best and should be able to help allay your concerns. I hope you find this brief response helpful. John. community moderator. Thank you for your comments. I will definitely mention to my doctor and keep it in mind!
You are welcome. Glad to hear you found my response helpful. Please do let me know what you learn from your doctor, as I'm very curious to hear what your doctor says. Just so you know, like you, I have also been dealing with this disease form most of my life, and am also in my mid 50's. Plus I (and others here) have dedicated much of my adult life studying this disease. So, if other questions come up at any time, please do feel free to ask them here. Either myself or one of my colleagues/ team workers will get back to you with a response. I wish you all the best. John. fellow asthmatics/ community moderator.
