A cortisone shot is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication injected directly into a specific area, such as a joint, bursa, or tendon sheath, to relieve pain and swelling. While the injection is localized, a portion of the steroid can be absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to systemic effects throughout the body. This is why some individuals experience side effects that are not confined to the injection site, including nausea.
Why a Cortisone Shot Can Cause Nausea
The exact mechanism for why a cortisone shot can make you nauseous is not fully understood, but several contributing factors are believed to play a role. These include:
- Systemic Absorption: Even though the injection is localized, the medication can spread throughout your body. Corticosteroids like cortisone can affect various bodily systems, and for some sensitive individuals, this systemic exposure can lead to feelings of nausea.
- Gastrointestinal Irritation: Corticosteroids are known to cause gastrointestinal issues, including stomach irritation and an increased risk of ulcers, particularly with prolonged or high-dose use. A single shot is far less likely to cause this than oral steroids, but the potential for some level of stomach upset remains.
- Vasovagal Response: The anxiety or stress associated with receiving any medical procedure, including an injection, can trigger a vasovagal reaction. This can cause a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness and nausea, and is not a direct reaction to the medication itself but rather the procedure.
- Other Side Effects: Nausea can sometimes be one symptom within a cluster of mild, temporary side effects that occur after a steroid shot, such as dizziness, headache, or flushing.
Factors That May Influence Nausea
Not everyone who gets a cortisone shot will experience nausea. Several factors can influence the likelihood and severity of this side effect:
- Use of Other Medications: The risk of gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers, is higher if you are also taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin. Your doctor may recommend a stomach protectant if you need to take both types of medication.
- Dose and Frequency: Higher doses and more frequent injections of corticosteroids increase the likelihood of experiencing systemic side effects. While a single shot is generally low-risk, those with multiple injections over a period of time may have more side effects.
- Individual Sensitivity: Like many medications, individual responses to cortisone can vary significantly. Some people may be more sensitive to the systemic effects of steroids, even at low doses.
How to Manage Nausea After a Cortisone Shot
If you find yourself feeling nauseous after an injection, there are several self-care strategies that can help manage the discomfort:
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, try eating several smaller, bland meals throughout the day. Opt for easy-to-digest foods like toast, crackers, rice, and bananas.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink small, slow sips of water or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration, which can worsen nausea. Sucking on ice chips can also be helpful.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Stay away from spicy, greasy, or acidic foods and sugary drinks, as these can irritate your stomach.
- Rest: Take it easy for a day or two after the injection. Avoid vigorous activity and allow your body to rest and adjust. Lying down for a while after eating is not recommended, as it can increase nausea.
- Take with Food: If your doctor prescribed accompanying medication, like oral steroids, taking them with a meal can help reduce stomach irritation.
Comparing Common vs. Serious Side Effects
It’s important to distinguish between mild, temporary side effects and more serious reactions. Most side effects from a cortisone shot are not severe. However, some symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
| Feature | Mild/Common Side Effects | Serious/Less Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Occurs shortly after or within a day or two of the injection | Can occur at any time, but typically includes more intense symptoms. |
| Associated Symptoms | Pain or swelling at injection site, temporary flushing of the face, increased blood sugar, insomnia, dizziness, and mild headache. | Signs of infection (fever, worsening swelling), convulsions, severe headache, sudden vision changes, severe or persistent nausea/vomiting. |
| Duration | Typically resolves within a few days. | Requires medical intervention and does not resolve on its own. |
| Action Required | Self-care strategies like rest and hydration can help manage symptoms. | Seek immediate medical attention or call your healthcare provider right away. |
When to Contact a Doctor
While mild nausea usually resolves quickly, you should contact your healthcare provider if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- A fever or worsening swelling, which could indicate an infection.
- Intense, persistent abdominal pain.
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
- Sudden, severe headache or any changes in vision.
- Weakness or numbness in the legs or buttocks.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (for spinal injections).
Conclusion
Experiencing nausea after a cortisone shot is a possible side effect, though it is not a universally common one. It can be caused by the systemic effects of the steroid, minor gastrointestinal irritation, or anxiety related to the procedure. Fortunately, the nausea is typically mild and temporary, resolving within a few days with rest and simple self-care measures. Being proactive by eating light meals and staying hydrated can help. As with any medical procedure, it is crucial to discuss any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure proper management and rule out more serious complications. The vast majority of people receive cortisone shots with minimal issues, finding significant relief from their symptoms.
For more information on corticosteroid side effects, you can visit resources from authoritative health institutions, such as the Hospital for Special Surgery at hss.edu.
