What should patients be educated about when starting corticosteroid therapy?

When patients are starting corticosteroid therapy, it's important to educate them about the potential for lifelong treatment. Corticosteroids can be prescribed for chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, asthma, or inflammatory disorders, which may require long-term management to maintain control of symptoms and prevent flares. Understanding that they might need to continue therapy over an extended period is crucial for adherence to the treatment plan, as well as recognizing the importance of regular check-ups to monitor for side effects and adjust dosages appropriately.

Additionally, patients should be informed of the risks associated with long-term corticosteroid use, such as potential to develop osteoporosis, diabetes, or increased susceptibility to infections. This knowledge helps patients be proactive about their health, facilitating discussions with their healthcare providers regarding the balance of benefits and risks associated with their corticosteroid therapy.

The other options do not accurately represent the complexities associated with corticosteroid therapy. For example, immediate side effects may occur, but they are not necessarily expected for all patients, and not all corticosteroid treatments are intended for acute conditions. Moreover, therapy duration varies widely based on individual health needs, and it's not always short-term.