What is cortisone therapy primarily used to treat?

Cortisone therapy is primarily used to treat adrenal insufficiency because it supplements the body's deficiency of cortisol, which is crucial for many bodily functions including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. In cases where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient amounts of this vital hormone, cortisone therapy can help restore hormonal balance and improve symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and skin changes. This therapy plays a significant role in managing conditions like Addison's disease, where the adrenal glands are underactive.

Other options, while addressing important health issues, do not align with the primary use of cortisone therapy. For example, although cortisone can have some anti-inflammatory effects that may help in muscle pain relief, it is not specifically indicated for this use. Similarly, cortisone is not employed for infection control since it can actually suppress the immune response, which could worsen infections. Lastly, cortisone therapy does not directly address cardiovascular issues and is not a standard treatment for conditions related to the heart or vascular system. Thus, the application of cortisone therapy is best understood within the context of treating adrenal insufficiency.