A quick medical guide on how cortisone injections may disrupt sleep and what patients should know before treatment.

CAN A CORTISONE SHOT CAUSE SLEEPLESSNESS? 

WHAT CORTISONE SHOTS ARE AND HOW THEY WORK

Cortisone injections reduce inflammation in joints, tendons, and tissues.  They mimic cortisol, the body’s natural stress hormone, to ease pain.

WHY CORTISONE SHOTS CAN AFFECT YOUR SLEEP

Steroids temporarily alter cortisol levels, disrupting the body’s sleep-wake rhythm.  This can cause difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

KEY FACTS:  3 DAYS OF INSOMNIA IS COMMON

Most people experience sleep disruption for 3 days.  Older adults or patients on higher doses may have stronger or longer-lasting insomnia.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CORTISONE-INDUCED INSOMNIA

Trouble falling asleep, restless energy, nighttime alertness, and fragmented sleep are typical symptoms after steroid injections.

WHO IS MORE LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE SLEEP LOSS?

Trouble falling asleep, restless energy, nighttime alertness, and fragmented sleep are typical symptoms after steroid injections.

HOW TO MANAGE SLEEP PROBLEMS AFTER A CORTISONE SHOT

Follow sleep hygiene, try relaxation techniques, melatonin, or discuss timing and dosage with your doctor.  Short-term sleep aids may be recommended.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE

Contact your doctor if insomnia is severe, lasts more than a few days, or accompanies mood changes, infection, or high blood sugar.

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