Steroids are a type of medication that are designed to act like hormones naturally produced in the human body to reduce inflammation. They are also known as corticosteroids and are different from anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders and athletes. Steroids are prescribed for a wide range of conditions such as arthritis, asthma, skin conditions, and some kinds of cancer. Steroids can reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as swelling, pain, and stiffness. They can be given in different ways, including pill, injection, and inhaled. Steroids can cause side effects, but they do not tend to cause significant side effects if theyre taken for a short time or at a low dose. However, sometimes they can cause unpleasant side effects such as an increased appetite, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping (insomnia) . Long-term use of steroids may cause thinning bones, called osteoporosis, and high blood sugar levels. Steroids should be used with caution in people with liver problems, like liver disease. Inhaled steroids usually have few or no side effects if used at normal doses.