Steroid GI Risk: What You Need to Know About Stomach Damage from Steroids

When you take steroids, a class of powerful anti-inflammatory drugs used for conditions like arthritis, asthma, or autoimmune diseases. Also known as corticosteroids, they work fast—but they don’t just target inflammation. They also weaken the stomach’s natural defenses, raising your risk of serious gut damage. This isn’t rare. Studies show up to 1 in 5 long-term users develop stomach ulcers, and some end up in the hospital from bleeding or perforation. It’s not just about taking too much—it’s about how long you’re on them, what else you’re taking, and your age.

The real danger comes from how steroids attack your stomach’s lining. They reduce protective mucus, lower blood flow to the gut, and make it harder for damaged tissue to heal. If you’re also taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, your risk doubles. Older adults, people with a history of ulcers, or those on high doses for more than a few weeks are especially vulnerable. Even low-dose prednisone, often seen as "safe," can cause trouble over time. And here’s the catch: you might not feel anything until it’s serious. No burning, no pain—just sudden internal bleeding.

That’s why knowing the signs matters. Black, tarry stools, vomiting blood, or sudden sharp stomach pain aren’t normal. They’re red flags. If you’re on steroids long-term, talk to your doctor about protective meds like proton pump inhibitors. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Prevention is easier than fixing damage after it happens.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons and guides from people who’ve dealt with this. From how Medrol and other steroids stack up in side effect profiles, to what alternatives exist for managing inflammation without wrecking your gut—you’ll see what works, what doesn’t, and what to ask your doctor next time you’re prescribed a steroid.