Adrenals

[bowler]

Does any one know if a test for adrenal insufficiency is done at a Dr's surgery or hospital ?

[polkadotcom]

Mine was done at hospital, but I'm sure that I've read that it was done at the GP's surgery for someone else. That might be on another forum, though. I suppose it would depend on the surgery having the equipment and training to do such a test, it isn't a common one.

[bowler in reply to polkadotcom]

Thank you for your prompt reply, I am thinking of asking for a test, I have been on Pred. for 14 years, and would like to know if my adrenals are still working, however I now recal reading that it cant be done whilst taking Pred ?

[Caroljoy60 in reply to polkadotcom]

A true test would be accurate without taking the Pred., but it is not advised to stop unless the doctor provides a gradual schedule.

[polkadotcom]

Mine was done while I was on 10mg Pred. The testing doctor had me confirm the dose twice and then made notes to allow for this during the test.

[bowler in reply to polkadotcom]

Thank you for your info.

What would we do without this site.

[mickt]

ive got addisons as well ,mine must be totally shot adrenals ,on 25mg pred for gca pmr also

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It can be done at either - but if you are taking pred the results look different and need to be interpreted by an expert with the right background knowledge. I doubt a GP would have it.

To be honest - if you are still on 10mg it is a bit pointless as that is above the amount the body would make anyway. It becomes more important at the 5 to 7mg range.

[ritter]

Hi can any one tell me what the test consists of please as I am down to 6mg,s and my Rheumy says not to have it done until you are off them completely,and mt GP says when I get down to 5mg,s many thanks Anne.

[Caroljoy60]

I'm on 5 mg of Prednisone due to low cortisol from Secondary Adrenaline Deficiency (my body makes very little cortisol, due to taking large dose of Prednisone for Asthma). My doctor ran blood test. My body makes .5 and the norm is 3-9. I believe on 5 mg., that it is possible my body may start making its own again. I have heard the saliva test is better, but costs 100.00 and I have not tried it yet. Wish I could go off the Pred.