PMR and viruses

[bunch1974]

Good morning everyone...I have a question. I was diagnosed with PMR on December 12th and began 10 milligrams of prednisone that day. The pain is been living with since May has miraculously lifted 90 %. I also have CFS and was prescribed Cymbalta which also has made a big difference.

On Wednesday I started having some allergy issues I thought, but now it has blown into a full out cold and asthma. Normally I would get on a week steroid pack if this happened in the past- but I’m already taking them so I’m confused as to how I developed this ? I actually haven’t been sick like this in quite a while.

I guess I’ll head to urgent care and get treatment of some kind- I sure don’t want to be sick for Christmas!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

The steroid pack isn't to deal with the viral infection, it is to reduce the swelling in the airways and the starting dose of a pack is probably more than 10mg. For some people being on longterm pred makes them more likely to catch an infection although it is a bit soon for that to apply for you. Most people in this situation would be given a steroid pack on top of the daily pred dose - which at 10mg is pretty low - because that is your baseline. You can take the pack and stop just like normal.

[bunch1974 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you for your quick reply. I guess it doesn’t help that my CFS, which I’ve had for years compromises my immune system also. I did get a flu shot in October which I do every year too.

So off to Urgent Care I go and will most likely start on an antibiotic and possibly an increase in steroids. Wish me luck 😊

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to bunch1974]

Oh joy! Good luck at urgent care - hope the queue isn't too long

[PMRCanada]

I’ve picked up two nasty chest colds since being on pred for 1.5 years. I have one now but hoping it will pass by Christmas. I note since being on pred long term when I do catch a bug it takes longer to resolve.

Good luck at the urgent care....and fingers crossed we’re both ok for Christmas.

[bunch1974 in reply to PMRCanada]

Thank you and yes I’m crossing my fingers for you too for a happy, healthy, Merry Christmas 🎄 🎅☺️