It is unclear exactly how steroids work, they possibly act by partly suppressing
the immune system and / or by reducing fluid accumulation around the site of nerve
damage.
Studies have shown that steroids are effective in speeding up recovery from relapse
but make no difference either to the degree of recovery or to the long-term progression
of the condition.
Treatment may be in hospital or at home and the drug given orally or intravenously.
It has been demonstrated that combining steroid therapy with planned multidisciplinary
team care is superior to administering drug therapy alone.
Long-term treatment should, where possible, be avoided due to side effects.
