Anxiety

Hi all, I've never been one for getting ill maybe got cough cold sore throat every few yrs tge occasional headache but nothing that was worth even mentioning but every different pain, twinge etc makes me anxious. As only 3 months since being diagnosed I'm hoping when I get used to the different symptoms/side effects I wont be such a nervous wreck when I get something new and different. Like today warm tingle face and siatica symptoms down one leg it so hard to know if it pmr/pred related or another health issue that never had before, am I just getting paranoid? So confusing, sorry for all the questions about little things but u are all putting my mind at rest thank you

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It is confusing at first, especially if you don't understand what is going on in your body and it is all new because before you were fit and well. We've all been there at some point.

It does get better and after a year you will look back and see how far you have come. No-one ever believes me when I say it but they come back to admit I was right. You're quarter of the way there ...

[Kendrew]

I think we've all been there! When you're first diagnosed, it's like navigating yourself through a maze of symptoms, side effects, medications, etc and it can be quite overwhelming. It's best not to overthink everything though, but that doesn't mean be frightened of learning as mu h as you can about your condition. Remember that you'll read many different versions of people's experiences here. You probably won't experience many of them yourself and if you don't keep that in perspective you'll just feel alarmed and anxious. Most of what we'll experience can be sorted or 'managed' and you'll find a wealth of experience and knowledge here. Try not to panic. Deep breaths. I'm not saying it's an easy road but you will be ok.

[SnazzyD]

The opportunities to send oneself barmy are potentially endless. I ask myself, if I didn’t have PMR, GCA or whatever, what would I think? Usually, not much. Also, I usually give something a good week or three before I start to think too much about it. Obviously new eye problems, chest pain and all those red flags need more prompt thought. I also, ask myself if I’ve had this before and did it go away? After a few more months you’ll see patterns and get used to the coming and going of niggles, especially with dose reductions.

[Telian]

I got heightened sensitivities, particularly the first year being on pred. It will settle down and you’ll look back and see the difference. My anxiety comes and goes if I have to increase/taper my dose but I see it as an annoying necessity that will ease.

[CarolF1312]

I can totally relate to your feelings. I'm in my first year too. Previously enjoyed very good health and found it very difficult coming to terms with PMR and the idea of taking Pred over a long period. I still worry about every new ache or pain but gradually the constant anxiety has diminished. Its a scary journey but we're all on the same bus ! Take care and be kind to yourself.

[Charlie1boy]

Even after six years, and looking back, I think one feels different every day - certainly if one thinks about it too much. Today, I still get good days and not so good days, but overall I would say I'm not doing too badly compared to lots of others.

As I am now at one mg per day, I put all my current issues down to adrenal function, or lack of it.

Like others have said, you should get used to it and not worry too much.

Best of luck

Paddy