Cold Turkey

[Headoverheels]

Having recently been hospitalised for dangerously low oxygen I was discharged after 7 days. Still on steroids I started to taper off over a period of 10 days. Within 2 days I felt ill not realising, until a friend suggested , it could be steroid withdrawal. I've had all the symptoms plus loads of crying. I was shocked. I wish the hospital had warned me this could happen.

Do I assume the calculations for tapering were incorrect? Has anyone else had the same experience?

I am pleased to say that the headache has gone after 5 days...so I feel I am on the up..not a nice experience though.

[Homely2 Administrator]

It seems to vary.

I had two bad attacks within three weeks, so two five day courses of prednisone were prescribed, one for each attack.

My consultant then intervened and put me on a 21 day taper at the end of the second course.

[Headoverheels in reply to Homely2]

Very interesting Homely2. I think my weaning should have been longer. Thanks.

[Bevvy]

When I have had to taper after several courses of steroids I have always tapered over 21 days. Sounds like you did not taper long enough.

Glad you starting to feel better now.

[Headoverheels]

Thanks Bevvy. I followed the rules given by the hospital ...I will ensure this never happens again!