It doesn't end with PMR

[Amber1414]

It was bad enough to be diagnosed with PMR a few years ago and to put on the weight with the Prednisone I have to take. I have osteoporosis now and just this week got to add diabetes onto the list. I have gained about 50 lbs in the 3 years thanks to the Prednisone. Please, my fellow PMR sufferers, don't let it get the best of you. Don't give in or give up! You don't want any more than you have to have.

[SheffieldJane]

It's depressing isn't it? Blaming yourself is just not fair though. Some of this is reversible with careful diet change. The Osteoporosis can be treated and there are ways to support yourself with it. I would be researching that. You're right it is a high price to pay and a timely warning to those who are beginning the journey. I still wouldn't have chosen to take AA.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi Amber,

I know it gets you down, but I’m sure many others will be along with suggestions for losing some of that weight you’ve gained. If you could, it would help your diabetes and probably your whole outlook. As Jane says the osteoporosis can be managed, as can the diabetes, but you need to get yourself in the right frame of mind to seek help. You’ve already taken the first step by posting, so carry on.

I imagine you will be referred to a diabetic clinic and will speak to a dietician who will help with the weight. My husband was diabetic, and the dietician used to say to him a diabetic diet is just a good diet - it’s what we all should be eating. Easier said than done sometimes!

Good luck

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Those are the reasons we advocate the low carb diet approach - it reduces weight gain and the risk of pred-induced diabetes.

One lady reported a week or two ago her Hba1c has fallen from 6,5 to 6.0 and her doctor is delighted - just by cutting carbs.

[jinasc]

pmr-gca-northeast.org.uk/as... follow this link and then go to page 4.

Demystifying DIABETES

In relation to Polymyalgia Rheumatica & Giant Cell Arteritis

My name is Karen Craggs. I was kindly invited by the

North East support group for PMR&GCA, in my capacity

as Lead Dietitian for Newcastle Diabetes Service, to

talk about the link with PMR, GCA and how they link

to Diabetes.

Well worth a read................

Some of the members who had Type 1, long before they developed PMR and/or GCA

told Karen, they wished they had been told about this long ago.