Taking 20mg of hydrocortisone daily, getting Pain through back and bottom of ribs and when taking deep breath.Is tis normal?

[Stevekemp]

I was diagnosed with PMR Sept 2017 and started taking Prednisone. When I was at 5mg the consultant changed me over too hydrocortisone. Which I have been on for over a year now. Recently I have been getting slot of headaches especially at night and pain around the middle of my body which is sometimes painful when I take a deep breath. This is gradually getting more frequent.

Does anyone else suffer from these symptoms

[123-go]

Hi Stevekemp. I can't comment on hydrocortisone but I would advise you to contact your consultant soon about the pain you're experiencing. Both of the things you mentioned need investigation, not least the headaches.

[Stevekemp in reply to 123-go]

Thank you

[piglette]

I had pain round the bottom of my ribs at the front, it was Costochondritis, but I did not have a headache. It was incredibly painful to breathe.

[Stevekemp in reply to piglette]

Thank you

[SheffieldJane]

Don’t forget COVID, it has chest and head pain in the symptom picture. I agree with everyone you do need to talk to your doctor and possibly the 111 NHS helpline for COVID tests if they think it warrants it and if you are in the U.K. Do painkillers help at all? I know Hydrocortisone is weaker than Prednisalone and not so good for PMR symptoms, we have to be alert for GCA too.

[Stevekemp in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thanks for that, I live in France, will be going to Dr later in the week.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Do you take the HC once daily or 2 or 3 doses per day? It isn't as good at suppressing the PMR inflammation. But I agree with the others - you need to speak to your doctor.

[Stevekemp in reply to PMRpro]

I take 10mg twice a day. I have made an appointment with my Dr for later in the week so hopefully she will be able to sort me out.