Epidural steroid injections are a common treatment for a number of conditions, including low back pain. They work by soothing the nerve roots that are causing the pain. After the injection, you may experience a number of side effects, such as swelling, bruising, and fever. Here are some things you should not do following an epidural steroid injection: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery. Do not lift heavy objects. Do not engage in sexual activity. Do not drink alcohol. Do not eat high-intensity exercise.
Epidural Steroid Injections: What They Are
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI) are a type of medication that are injected into the spine in order to relieve pain. There are many different types of ESI, and each has its own benefits and risks. Epidural steroid injections may be used for a variety of conditions, such as chronic lower back pain, sciatica, or childbirth.
There are several things you should not do after an epidural steroid injection:
Do not drink alcohol. This can increase your risk of complications from the injection.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the medication will affect you. Epidural steroids can make you sleepy and dizzy, which could lead to accidents.
Do not lift anything heavier than your body weight until you know how the medication will affect you. Epidural steroids can cause muscle weakness and fatigue, which could lead to injuries if you try to lift something too heavy.
Epidural Steroid Injections: How They Work
Epidural steroid injections are a type of pain medication that work by calming the nerves and reducing inflammation. Epidural steroid injections are typically used to treat long-term, chronic pain in the neck, back, or hips.
There are three types of epidural steroid injections: local anesthetic only (local), local and opioid (combination), and central. Local anesthetic only epidural steroid injections use a local anesthetic to numb the area being injected, while local and opioid epidural steroid injections use both a local anesthetic and opioids to reduce pain. Central epidural steroid injections use a central agent, such as bupivacaine or fentanyl, to numb the entire body.
Epidural steroid injections work best when they are given as scheduled treatments. If you experience any of the following after an epidural steroid injection, call your doctor right away: fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, tightness in the chest or pressure on the heart (pulmonary embolism).
Epidural Steroid Injections: Side Effects and How to Avoid Them
Epidural steroid injections are a type of medication that is injected into the epidural space in the spinal cord to relieve pain. Epidural steroid injections can be used in a variety of medical conditions, such as sciatica, back pain, and neuropathic pain.
Side effects of epidural steroid injections can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and somnolence. Side effects can vary depending on the person receiving the injection, and some people may experience no side effects at all. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before receiving an epidural steroid injection.
It is important to avoid doing anything that could increase your chances of experiencing side effects from an epidural steroid injection. This includes drinking alcohol or taking other medications that might impair your ability to withstand pain medication. It is also important not to workout vigorously immediately after receiving an epidural steroid injection; this might cause excessive muscle soreness that can increase your chances of experiencing side effects from the injection.
What to Do If You Encounter a Side Effect from an Epidural Steroid Injection
If you experience a side effect from an epidural steroid injection, there are some things you should not do. Here are four things to avoid:
1. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery: Epidural steroids can cause significant side effects when taken in large doses or over a long period of time. If you experience any of the following side effects, it is advisable to rest and refrain from engaging in any activities that requirecoordination or attention: dizziness, confusion, muscle weakness, nausea, and vomiting.
2. Do not drink alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of experiencing side effects from epidural steroids, including lightheadedness, drowsiness, impaired motor skills, and even blacking out.
3. Do not eat large amounts of food: Eating large quantities of food can lead to stomach cramps and other gastrointestinal issues that can further complicate the side effects of epidural steroids.
4. Do not smoke cigarettes: Smoking cigarettes can increase your risk for developing respiratory problems such as pneumonia caused by epidural steroid use.
After an Epidural Steroid Injection: What to Do
Epidural steroid injections are a common treatment for back pain and can provide relief from both acute and chronic pain. However, like any medical procedure, there are precautions you should take after an epidural steroid injection.
The most common side effects of epidural steroids are headache, dizziness, and nausea. In rare cases, epidural steroids can also cause serious side effects including increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
To minimize the chances of experiencing any side effects after an epidural steroid injection, follow these tips:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by headaches or nausea. You may also want to drink chamomile tea or ginger ale before the injection to help relieve symptoms.
Avoid excessive activity: Exercise or do anything that increases your heart rate should be avoided 48 hours after the injection. This is especially important if you experience lightheadedness, dizziness, or headache following the injection.
If you experience any of these side effects following the epidural steroid injection, please consult with your doctor as soon as possible.