Final answer:
Stopping high doses of oral corticosteroids abruptly can lead to an Addisonian crisis, which is a life-threatening condition due to cortisol deficiency. It is essential to taper off such medications under medical supervision.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Joan, who has severe asthma and has been on high doses of oral corticosteroids for 2 years, suddenly stops all of her medications, she may develop an Addisonian crisis. This condition, also known as adrenal insufficiency, is a potentially life-threatening situation that results from the sudden withdrawal of steroidal medication, which can lead to a deficiency of cortisol. The symptoms may include severe fatigue, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances.
It is critically important for individuals on long-term corticosteroids to taper off the medication under the supervision of a healthcare provider to avoid such crises. An Addisonian crisis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment with corticosteroids to replace the deficient hormones and stabilize the patient's condition.