Weight gain from steriods

[Greenivymay]

I have gone from a size 8 to a size 14 due to being on steriods for 3 years on an off and currently on Kenalog injections . I have currently got really deep stretch marks which are sore and red and purple and I get very embarrassed and upset about these. I currently can’t exercise as I walk up a flight of stairs and I’m out of breathe. I need help! Any advice on any help?

[Troilus]

Could your weight gain be attributed to water retention? I as because each time I take steroids I get a build up of water. I’m only on them for short blasts and this generally resolves itself once I finish the course.

If not, then the only thing you can do is reduce your calorie intake and shift the weight the old fashioned way.

I find meal replacement shakes very useful. They make you feel full ( for a short time 😁), make you feel like you are doing something and, the added bonus is the weight comes off fairly quickly so you can see the progress you are making. They suit me because I have a very sweet tooth and my weight gain tends to come from cake and biscuits.

If you are into savouries I believe you can get soups.

( I like to use these because they contain vitamins, proteins and minerals, so I am not depriving my self of the bodies necessaries.)

[Poobah]

Hello Greenivymay. Is Kenalog for your asthma or for a different illness? You don't mention other treatments other than steroids.

Unfortunately, weight gain is a side effect of steroids. And weight can affect asthma control. The only way to tackle the weight is by a sensible calorie controlled diet and more exercise - but that sounds impossible at the moment. Try and take regular gentle walks and gradually build up your distance.

Bio-oil gel may help with your stretch marks. I've heard good things about it but it has to be used regularly.

You're probably having regular reviews for your asthma treatment with your doctor or asthma nurse and they have explored a range of medications for your treatment.

All the best.

[Greenivymay in reply to Poobah]

Hello, yes kenalog is for my asthma. I have a lot of other medication. Fostair 200/6 sprivia salbutamol Carbocisteine fluxotine Montelukast Omeprazole fexofenadine and I am also on faserna injections. Yeah I am already using bio oil and have been for over 2 months but it’s not improving . Yeah I am under a speacialist. Thankyou for your comment

[Poobah in reply to Greenivymay]

That's disappointing that Bio-oil isn't helping. Aloe Vera is supposed to be very calming on the skin.

Having said that it would be a good idea to have your doctor check these out, mainly because of the level of steroids that you've been on and are now taking, just as a precaution.

All the best.

[Greenivymay in reply to Poobah]

Yeah I know they are really deep and really red and purple! just not very nice. Thankyou

[TheOriginalSim]

Hi there, I've been on steriods for the past year and gained a significant amount of weight too. My stretch marks on my hips and stomach look like a firework has exploded. I've been trying to reduce pred since the end of Feb and have noticed that some of my stretch marks are now turning white! Which is a good thing. I did use bio-oil when I first noticed them and wasn't comfortable with them but didn't notice any change. I decided I would try again now I'm shrinking nit gaining and it seems to be working.

I'd just say to be really good with what you eat and especially what you're snacking on. Like you I couldn't exercise too much because it would set me off. But as soon as you start to feel better maybe try a few things to work your energy and strength back up. Once you're off steroids that'll be the time to focus on getting back to yourself. It took me awhile except who I was looking the way I did. But now I'm okay with it all. Hate being the size I am but know it's not my fault and I am trying all that I physically can.