epidurals are a type of injection used to relieve pain and inflammation. They are often given during childbirth, surgery, or other medical procedures. While epidurals are generally safe, there is one potential risk: eating or drinking before an epidural injection. Epidural steroid injections can be dangerous if they are not given properly. If you eat or drink before getting the injection, it can increase your risk of serious health problems, including stroke and death. If you are scheduled for an epidural injection, please do not eat or drink anything for at least two hours before the injection. If you have any questions about the procedure or your health, please contact your health care provider.
What is an epidural steroid injection?
Epidural steroid injections are a type of injection that are used to relieve pain from conditions such as cervical spondylolysis and sciatica. Epidural steroids work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the area that is being treated. Injection techniques vary depending on the condition being treated, but most epidural steroid injections are done through a small needle inserted into the backside of the shoulder blade. The injection is often painless, but some people may experience some mild discomfort afterward.
What to expect before the epidural steroid injection
An epidural steroid injection is a procedure that is used to relieve pain from various conditions. The most common reason for needing an epidural steroid injection is a herniated disk.
The epidural steroid injection typically takes about 30 minutes to complete, and you will be asked to remain still during the entire process. You may experience some mild discomfort following the injection, but it should be short-lived.
If you are having an epidural steroid injection for back pain, you will need to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least two hours before your appointment. Drinking water and non-caffeinated beverages after this time can help reduce any potential side effects from the epidural steroid injection.
How to eat and drink before the epidural steroid injection
The most important thing to know before receiving an epidural steroid injection is that you should not eat or drink anything for several hours beforehand. Drinking large amounts of fluids can increase the risk of urinary tract infection, and eating can delay the absorption of the steroid.
Epidural steroid injection side effects
Epidural steroid injections are a common procedure used to treat conditions such as chronic pain and tension headaches. The steroid injection is given into the spinal cord, numbing the area and reducing inflammation. While the injections are typically safe and effective, there are a few side effects that can occur.
The most common side effect of an epidural steroid injection is headache. Epidural steroids can cause headaches from several sources: the steroid itself, increased pressure in the skull from the injection, or irritation of surrounding structures. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and fatigue. If any of these symptoms occur during or after the injection, please see your doctor immediately.
If you experience any side effects following an epidural steroid injection, please speak with your doctor about what steps you should take to reduce those symptoms. In some cases, taking over-the-counter pain medications or ibuprofen may help relieve symptoms quickly. If you experience any severe side effects (like vomiting blood or severe headache), please seek medical attention immediately.
Epidural steroid injection risks
Epidural steroid injections are a type of anesthetic that can be used to relieve pain from various medical conditions. These injections work by numbing the area being treated, and they are usually given as an outpatient procedure. There are some risks associated with epidural steroid injections, but most of these risks are very minor. The most common risk is that the injection may not provide enough relief, and the patient may require additional treatments. Other risks include infection, stroke, and allergic reactions. Patients should discuss any risks associated with epidural steroid injections with their doctor before receiving them.