Can hormones be taken long-term?
Sep 07, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Hormones usually should not be taken for long periods. Long-term use may lead to symptoms such as central obesity, excessive body hair growth, and water and sodium retention. The skin may also become thinner, and conditions such as hypertension and diabetes may develop. Additionally, prolonged use can increase the risk of fungal infections and delay wound healing. It may also trigger complications such as gastrointestinal ulcers and electrolyte imbalances.
Hormones are generally not suitable for long-term use, as they may cause side effects in the body.
Long-term use of hormones may lead to central obesity, excessive hair growth, fluid and sodium retention, and thinning of the skin. It may also trigger conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, it can increase the risk of fungal infections and delay wound healing. Other potential complications include gastrointestinal ulcers, electrolyte imbalances, and muscle atrophy. Calcium loss from the body may result in osteoporosis, and in severe cases, pathological fractures may occur. The body's immune resistance may also decrease. Moreover, patients may experience psychiatric symptoms such as depression, irritability, and insomnia.
For certain diseases that typically require long-term hormone therapy to control the condition—such as asthma—patients must strictly follow medical instructions. They should avoid adjusting medication dosages or stopping treatment on their own, as this could pose a life-threatening risk. Additionally, regular hospital follow-up visits are necessary during hormone treatment to monitor disease progression closely.
