Keeping Calm and Carrying On!

[Fredddie]

Hi everyone,

It has been just over 3 months since I started on Pred at 40mg and now on 15mg. During this time my side effects have reduced and although I get the odd ache and pain particularly when I reduce dosage (only for a few days which I take paracetamol) I am starting to feel more like my old self.

Side effects includes dizziness, tingling in hands and feet, shaking, fatigue, irritability (hubby has broad shoulders!) hyper, downy hair on face (keeps you warm in winter!), slightly more rounded face (which helps with the wrinkles) and have been told how well I look! Although its been an adjustment with a few tears and thats ok - I have to look on the positive side of life!

Keeping off the sugar and carbs but treat myself on odd occaision (denying makes me want more!) is keeping the weight in check. Also realise the 'overdoing of all things physical' so pacing myself is the new me!! I have learnt over the past 3 months to listen to my body, make adjustments and most of the time its been working well.

First visit with Rheumatologist went well now reducing by 2.5mg every 4 weeks to 10mg and then no more than 1 mg every 4 weeks. He seemed positive about the future for me as long as we take it slowly as in the long run it is the quicker route.(not having flare ups and going back up again), but one day at a time.

Hope this information might help someone and you all have a good day.

[SheffieldJane]

A very satisfactory journey so far Freddie. The lower doses can be a challenge, but you sound like you know what you a doing. Don’t tempted to speed up your taper and allow rests from tapering if symptoms creep back. You are looking for the lowest possible dose that controls your symptoms, not zero. Good luck!

[Fredddie in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thanks for info - much appreciated.

[Hidden]

Sound so far so good! But if they are any symptoms a week into a drop then stay until they go. Remember once passed 10mg that each reduction is more than 10% so slow and steady helps. We'll done for establishing a pacing routine. And I agree re denying yourself something completely.... The stress of managing the denial is worse than the occasional acceptance. It allows you to enjoy the "treaT" without getting worked up and chastising yourself. 🌻🎉

[Fredddie in reply to Hidden]

Yep exactly how I feel. Ok that makes sense - more good advice thanks.

I have had so much support on this site I'm sure it has helped so much into this journey - how I would have coped without it and with immediate support I really don't know. So a BIG THANK YOU to every one and still a long way to go......

[susieq051 in reply to Fredddie]

These is one website that all of us need. Thank you everyone for your support

[Hidden in reply to Fredddie]

Yes I found it really a life saver when first diagnosed.

[Blearyeyed]

Glad to hear from you , I was wondering how you were getting on , it seems to be going well, let's hope things keep up as they have been.

You are coping really well , well done and take care xxx

[Fredddie in reply to Blearyeyed]

Thank you hope this finds you well - trying my best and your advice has been very effective.

[Blearyeyed in reply to Fredddie]

Great ! I've just written my own update post but unfortunately my body doesn't seem to want to behave despite following my own advice as well as yours is ! 😋😂😂😂

[Jackoh]

Seems like you’re off to a really good start- long may it continue!

[Fredddie in reply to Jackoh]

Thank you I certainly hope so.