Long term efx from IV steriod use?

[tankgirl]

Please respond as I'm sure many readers need to know:

What are the long term efx of chronic steriod use?  Can your lungs become "steriod dependent"?  

Dx '93, began steriods, then all interferons & Novantrone, steriods for exacerbations & x 3 yrs regular 500mg IV steriods @ 6 wks.

Symptoms worsening x 3 months: SOB c exertion(i.e going to mailbox) hacking cough, postural vertigo & dizziness with falls,  BP fluctuations, ^ fatigue,  blurry vision L eye.  along with other MS symptoms of weakness & spasticity.  Went from walking with braces to mostly wheelchair in 1 month!  

CT Brain + 1 large lesion, CT Chest shows bilateral parenchymal interstital scarring in both apices & lower lobes & other areas of scarring + hyperaeration "probably" related to COPD.  Infusaport hurts but CT scan shows no leakage.

Cardiologist didn't seem too concerned but having nuclear stress test & PFT's.  
ER/RN administrator said symtoms related to worsening MS due to steriods & diaphragm weaking. Can steriod use cause this?  If so how prevalent is it and what can be done? Appreciate your time.. D

  


ER AOD said symptoms related to


      

[Artist22]

I've been IV steriods once a month 1000mg a day for 3days for the last 6 months until my body started having full body spasms, some lasted 2 hours some 30 minutes. That was for 19 days in a row then after a few days without I got d/c from the hospital, some md's say yes its the steriods and others no. (probally because he wrote the rx), That has been the worst for me. I will no longer take it, I had other side efects but nothing like spasms, just had one tonight at home I was woken from a sound sleep spasming from head to toe. Research, get second opinions and make sure you have a good advocate when you are unable to get your wits about you. God luck