Steroid emergency card
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A steroid emergency card is a small card you carry that tells healthcare workers you take steroid medicine long-term. This is important because if you get very sick or injured, your body may not be able to produce enough natural steroids, and you could need extra emergency treatment.
Key facts
- It is designed for people who take steroid medicines (like prednisolone or hydrocortisone) for a long period.
- The card helps prevent a life-threatening emergency called adrenal crisis.
- You should always keep the card with you and show it to any doctor or nurse who treats you.
For people on long-term steroid treatment, having a steroid emergency card is a common and important safety measure.
Anyone who takes steroid medicines for a long time, or who has had their adrenal glands removed or damaged, may need a steroid emergency card.
Symptoms
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Signs of shock (pale, clammy skin, fast heart rate)
- ⚠Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea that prevents taking steroid pills
- ⚠High fever not controlled by medicine
- ⚠Feeling very weak or confused but still conscious
Common symptoms
- Feeling very weak or dizzy
- Severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- High fever or severe infection
Symptoms in children
- Fussiness, poor feeding, or vomiting
- Extreme tiredness or confusion
Symptoms in older adults
- Sudden confusion or weakness
- Low blood pressure causing fainting or falls
Causes
Main causes
- Long-term use of steroid medicines (for conditions such as asthma, arthritis, or inflammatory diseases)
- Adrenal gland damage or removal
- Pituitary gland problems that affect hormone production
Risk factors
- Taking steroids for more than 3 weeks
- Suddenly stopping steroids without medical guidance
- Having an infection or injury while on steroid treatment
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have symptoms of adrenal crisis and cannot reach your emergency team, call your local emergency number immediately.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you need a new steroid emergency card or have lost yours
- If you are planning to travel and need advice on managing your steroids
- If you have questions about how to adjust your steroid dose during illness
Diagnosis
Your doctor will give you a steroid emergency card if you are on long-term steroid treatment or if you have adrenal insufficiency.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests to measure cortisol levels
- Short synacthen test (a test to see how your adrenal glands respond)
What to expect at your appointment
Your healthcare team will explain when and how to use the card, and what to do in an emergency. They will also teach you about adjusting your steroid dose during illness.
Treatment
Having a steroid emergency card is part of your overall treatment plan. It ensures that if you become very ill, doctors know to give you additional steroid medicine immediately.
Self-care at home
- Always carry the card with you.
- Tell family and friends about the card and what to do in an emergency.
- Keep a supply of your emergency steroid injection or tablets at home if prescribed.
Medical treatments
If you are unable to take your steroid medicine by mouth due to vomiting or unconsciousness, a healthcare professional can give you an injection of steroids. This is often done in an emergency department.
When is surgery considered?
If you need surgery, you will usually need extra steroid doses before and after the procedure. Show your steroid emergency card to the surgical team.
Living with this condition
Living with long-term steroid treatment means being prepared. Always have your card with you, keep a backup supply of medication, and know the signs of adrenal crisis.
Lifestyle tips
- Wear a medical alert bracelet.
- Carry an emergency supply of steroids.
- Plan ahead for travel and illness.
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet to help manage weight gain from steroids. Regular, gentle exercise can help maintain bone health and muscle strength.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Dealing with a chronic condition and the need for emergency planning can be stressful. Talk to your doctor if you feel anxious or overwhelmed.
Prevention
Adrenal crisis can often be prevented by always carrying your steroid emergency card, taking your steroids as prescribed, and adjusting doses during illness as directed.
Vaccines
Speak to your doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as flu and pneumonia vaccines, to reduce the risk of infection.
Screening programmes
Regular check-ups with your doctor to review your steroid dose and overall health can help prevent complications.
Complications
If left untreated
- Adrenal crisis (a life-threatening condition with very low blood pressure, severe vomiting, and loss of consciousness)
- Long-term steroid side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, or osteoporosis if not managed properly
Long-term outlook
Most people on long-term steroids can live healthy, active lives. With proper management, the risk of adrenal crisis is low. Your steroid emergency card is a key part of staying safe.
Find support
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.