Saw my Rheumy today. Inflammation is all in the normal range. I had tapered to 8.5mg then went back up to 10 for a few days because of my jaw pain that originally cropped up along with all my PMR symptoms in the beginning. Then I started going back and forth between 9 and 10 with the idea of tapering again by 1/2 mg per step starting tomorrow. He wants me to taper down to 7 in the next 2 months and not pay attention to the jaw pain. Said it is probably TMJ. But I never had TMJ before so why now? Wants me to go get checked out for that. Said it couldn't be my PMR because it is only on one side!
When he mentioned that my inflammation was normal, I asked if that is because I am on Prednisone FOR the inflammation. He didn't give me an answer, just wants me to taper down before it "breaks up my bones". LOL However, he hasn't sent me for a Dexa scan either. So, wouldn't the Prednisone be controlling my inflammation?I also vaguely recall seeing that not all PMR patients have elevated inflammation markers.
Hi,
He may be correct in that it’s TMJ, and sensible to be checked particularly as it’s unilateral.
Your inflammation markers should be in the normal range if the Pred is doing what it ‘s designed for....to control inflammation! So why he didn’t answer that not sure, but remember they do very often lag behind symptoms. Plus you are correct in saying not all patients have raised markers, but if you did originally then I would expect that trend to continue.
As for reducing to 7mg within next 2 months, you can but try!
Hello you really need to get the jaw pain checked out that was 1 of my symptoms when I was diagnosed with GCA
Thank You! I think I will continue to go at my own pace and taper 1/2 mg as long as my symptoms are controlled. I am not fond of his attitude, "taper or break". LOL
Break what? I'll take the risk of abroken bone versus going blind any day ...
True, plus not everyone suffers bone loss with Pred.
Thank You! Yes, that is what I figured. His lack of comment made me think that he just wanted me off Pred. one way or another. At the onset only one of my markers was very slightly elevated, after being on Pred they were right back in line.
Does sound as if he wants you off Pred...unfortunately a lot think that way. You have to do what you think is best for you.