Final answer:
Systemic corticosteroids can lead to side effects such as high blood glucose levels, weight gain, psychological changes, osteoporosis, increased risk of infections, and facial changes. Long-term use can cause Cushing's syndrome with symptoms like a 'buffalo hump' and muscle weakness. Insomnia, depression, and an increased risk of severe conditions like diabetes and heart disease may also occur.
Step-by-step explanation:
Systemic corticosteroids have a range of potential side effects due to their action on the immune system and various metabolic processes. Some common side effects of systemic corticosteroid use include high blood glucose levels, increased appetite leading to weight gain, and psychological effects such as mood swings, memory issues, and behavior changes. Additional side effects can include osteoporosis, thinning of the skin, easy bruising, increased risk of infections, and specific facial changes like a rounder face. Extended use of systemic corticosteroids may lead to Cushing's syndrome, with symptoms such as a 'buffalo hump' of fat between the shoulders, slow growth in children, and muscle weakness. Patients may also experience insomnia, depression, and other physical changes like skin rashes and joint pain.
Prolonged corticosteroid use may put patients at an increased risk for several severe conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and potential heart disease. To minimize these risks, healthcare providers aim to find the lowest effective dose and evaluate long-term treatment needs carefully. In some cases, patients may need additional medications or treatments to counteract the side effects of corticosteroids.