What is a common side effect of long-term corticosteroid use in respiratory treatment?

Long-term corticosteroid use is associated with several significant side effects, one of the most notable being an increased risk of infection and osteoporosis. Corticosteroids are known to suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. This is particularly crucial in respiratory treatment, where patients may already be compromised due to underlying lung conditions.

Additionally, corticosteroids can impact bone health by inhibiting the formation of new bone and promoting bone resorption, leading to a decrease in bone mineral density. This increases the risk of osteoporosis, which can result in fractures, even with minimal trauma.

While other options might reflect potential side effects of corticosteroids or other medical conditions, they are not as characteristic of long-term corticosteroid therapy as the increased risk of infection and osteoporosis. Understanding these risks is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to ensure appropriate monitoring and preventive measures are taken during treatment.