Steroids and heart problems

[Ladypig8]

I’m worrying myself today about side effects of prednisolone and inhaled steroids etc, I have a steroid card and had quite a few weeks of high dose prednisolone last few months plus looking likely to continue while I wait for specialist appointment in April. Just wondered if anyone had any suggestions for reducing the risk? Thanks very much for any advice.

[peege]

I take my medications as prescribed for Familial High Cholesterol and high BP. I also try to ensure my weight is ok by walking and the best eating regime I can afford with plenty of vegetables and fibre. Also low sugar due to pre-diabetes and the need to avoid fungi. Personally the above is vital because both my maternal grandparents died of stroke, my mum had a stroke and my older sister had a massive stroke in 2021, she's confined to wheel chair/bed and can do nothing for herself. She has her husband 79 as carer plus carers 3 times per day. I live alone, no family near so no-one would find me. (Sis refused the prescribed statins, she thought her healthy diet & weight would protect her).......that's me anyway.

[Ladypig8 in reply to peege]

Thanks - sounds like I should ask for my blood pressure to be taken, walking sounds good 👍

[Poobah]

Apart from discussing your concerns with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of heart issues, you can lower your salt intake (Prednisolone can affect salt levels) and keep an eye on your blood pressure. If your BP is raised, talk to your doctor about treatment.

[Ladypig8 in reply to Poobah]

Thanks very much - I’ll definitely ask to get blood pressure checked and avoid salt.

[Singinglouder in reply to Ladypig8]

Your pharmacy can probably take your blood pressure - ours is really pushing it at the moment - much quicker than asking your surgery.

[runcyclexcski in reply to Ladypig8]

If your BP is a concern, get yourself a "manual"/"analog"/"old school" BP stethoscope rather than relying on occasional measurements by the nurse. I got one last month to replace my electronic one, paid about 50 quid on amazon. The electronic one would give readings all over the place, whereas the manual one showed consistently elevated BP . Taking measurements every day helps knowing what one's body responds to and helps the docs, if a prescriotion is needed. E.g. I did not realize how much exercise helps to lower BP, even 30 min has a remarkable effect. And coffee does not raise it (to my surprise and joy -- but we are all different).

[hilary39]

have you been having any heart issues? like palpitations? or are you just worried about possible complications? if you have had palpitations, I'd get your cortisol tested. palpitations are a sign of adrenal insufficiency (too little cortisol from being on too much pred)