Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of inhaled steroids?

Inhaled steroids are commonly used in the management of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Among the potential side effects of inhaled steroids, cough, hoarseness, and fungal infections (oral thrush) are frequently observed. These side effects arise from the local effects of the medication on the upper airway and the oral cavity, as well as potential alterations to the local immune response.

Cough can occur as a reflex reaction due to irritation caused by inhaled particles or from the corticosteroid itself. Hoarseness is often a result of vocal cord irritation, which can stem from the medication's impact on the throat and larynx. Fungal infections, particularly oral thrush, happen because inhaled steroids can suppress local immune defenses in the oropharyngeal area, allowing for overgrowth of Candida species.

In contrast, hypertension is not a typical side effect associated with inhaled steroids. While systemic corticosteroids can lead to increased blood pressure due to fluid retention and effects on sodium balance, inhaled steroids are designed to minimize systemic absorption, thus reducing the risk of systemic side effects such as hypertension. Therefore, among the listed options, hypertension stands out as a condition that is generally not associated with the