Diabetes Care Club
Join Our Community for FREE

Newsletter Signup

Want the best of DCC Connect delivered right to your inbox? Sign up below to receive our monthly newsletter!

Question

hi, my name is Cherrie, I went to a pain center last week, the MD suggested I take a steroid injection, kenalog for pain control. she also stated it wll raise my blood sugar but could say how high. I told her I would consider it, your opinion please. chlcufe@aol.com

Amy's Answer

Hi! Good question. Yes, steroids do elevate blood sugar and make diabetes difficult to control.
If you absolutely need the steroid injection, then you need it. If you can avoid this, it is suggested.
How high will the steroid elevate your blood sugar? This varies from person to person. If you are on insulin, you can increase insulin where necessary with the assistance of your MD. If you are on oral medications, you can increase your activity and decrease your carbohydrates to offset the elevation in your blood sugars.
Sometimes steroids are inevitable however if steroids are at all avoidable, it is suggested. I am certain your MD will help you to make the right decision for you in this matter. I hope that this is helpful to you.

Leave a Comment

Amy's Most Recent Questions