Hi, Brief answer: Symptoms of dyspepsia and heartburn can be a side effect of corticosteroids such as Sterodin (dexamethasone), but this is usually rare with low doses and short term use. Detailed answer: Corticosteroids can impair the production of the mucus that protects the stomach from acid as well as increase the production of acid leading to damage to the stomach lining. The damage to the stomach is worse with higher dose and long term use of corticosteroids. Damage is also worsened by use of NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen. Lower doses and short courses of corticosteroids are rarely associated with significant damage to the stomach lining and so less likely to cause dyspepsia or heartburn. Patients at higher risk of stomach damage and development of stomach ulcers can be prescribed Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) such as omeprazole to reduce their risk. I would suggest that you not take NSAIDs and abstain from from alcohol, coffee, chocolate, and spicy foods, which can increase the production of stomach acid and make your symptoms worse. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms and seek evaluation if your symptoms get worse with increasing abdominal pain or dark tarry stools or blood in the stool. Hope this helps answer your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care. Regards, Dr. Aaron Shapiro