To take or not to take steroids

[PatB1948]

Hi everyone,

First of all thank you all for information and advice you posted in the last few days.

I have been feeling so awful over weekend that I think I had already decided I will take the 15mg Prednisolone. I was at GP this morning and asked lots of questions. He said that the side effects should not be as bad this time as 15mg is a moderate dose whereas last time it was much higher, he also reiterated what you all said, it would be advisable to take the Pred as the side effects would be better than the pain from PMR and the risks involved in not taking it. I will let you know how I get on.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Please do!

[SheffieldJane]

Please do Pat. Wishing you a really gentle journey this time.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You have a very sensible GP by the sound of things! Hope he is as sensible all the time.

[hiandri]

Good luck Pat, you wont know yourself, I've been on 15mg for last 2 weeks and it has made a huge difference to me and the only side effects I have noticed to date is occasional nausea and a couple of unusual memory losses which of course may have nothing to do with it.

All the best, keep us informed, Regards John

[jwb43]

Pat,. What did your doctor say the risks were of not taking the prednisone?

[PatB1948 in reply to jwb43]

Developing GCA, also risk of stroke. I already have other health problems, Atrial Fibrillation and Diabetes so I am at a higher risk of having a stroke or heart attack already.