Different attitude this time around

[Rosina1871]

I went into remission from PMR in Jan 2020 after just 13 months of PMR. I was initially devastated with the diagnosis as I was active and healthy before this. About six weeks ago following problems with my shoulders and then hands my inflammation markers were normal. Two weeks ago I felt dreadful with aches in my legs and following another blood test my inflammation was raised but not markedly. Five days ago I was put on 15mg of prednisolone and suddenly I was me again. The purpose of this post is to say I am never going to worry about steroids again. Ok I’m on AA and have a cataract but life feels so much better. I have my life back

[SheffieldJane]

Well done for the change of attitude and acceptance, I am sure that it will help everything. Thank goodness we have a drug that can do this, in spite of the side effects, many of which can be mitigated.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

With you all the way!!!!

[Rosina1871 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you x

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Actually I doubt very much you went into remission, rather that your PMR has been slowly bubbling up again due to no Pred.

Take it more slowly this time around, and enjoy life rather than thinking ‘I must be off the medication”

[Rosina1871]

Absolutely x

[Rosina1871 in reply to Rosina1871]

But only one shoulder was playing up originally and my inflammation markers were normal so initially didn’t think it was PMR

[Rosina1871 in reply to Rosina1871]

I’m hoping the steroids are not just masking problems with my shoulders and hands, but I do feel so much better

[Constance13]

A lot of people who get off Pred quickly have a relapse - they then realise that pred isn't the enemy they thought it was.

[birdseed]

Glad you’re doing better. I have also found PMR is always in the drivers seat. I was diagnosed almost 5 years ago. Was so happy when I got down to 2mg prednisone and thought yes perhaps this will soon be in the rear view mirror! Nope.... I tried to push through some returning fatigue and pain and then realized I was not facing the reality of the disease. Called my rheumatologist and started back on 4mg with a followup appointment in December. Feeling great and once again found out who’s boss!

[Lonsdalelass in reply to birdseed]

That's exactly how I was, only I'd got down to 1.5 and went back to 5, then dropped back to 3,which is a comfortable level for me. So yes, I'd rather have my life back too than be struggling on a lower dose!