Hello folks. Am now down to 8mg pres. My esr etc all ok. Just get aches in l.h,s. Neck and shoulder. Middle ok! Then spread.

[annihami]

Mainly in buttocks. Radiating through pelvis. Also getting some earache, discomfort in head. My gp - who is great- sending me to see a rheumatologist. What can I expect on my first visit? Thanks Ann

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hello Ann

It's good to hear that your GP is referring you to a rheumatologist especially as you are still experiencing pain in the areas you mention, particularly with your head and ear. He will obviously need to check that the latter symptoms are not down to GCA, It does sound as though your present dose of 8mg is not quite high enough to control the inflammation that is causing your symptoms, even though you say that your ESR is ok. I hope the referral comes through quickly as I feel you really need to get the head and ear pain checked and GCA ruled out as if it is suspected you will need a much higher dose of Prednisolone to protect your eyesight. I would check with your GP whether he suspects GCA and, if so, ask for an emergency referral. All good wishes.

[bluejaygirl]

Same thing happened to me when I went to 8. Had to go back up to 9 but still hurting.