It is not just whether the adrenal glands themselves are functioning and able to produce cortisol that matters - there is a very complex feedback system involving what is called the HPA axis and several organs/glands/hormones. To get them into proper and reliable balance takes time and it is said in the medical literature that can take up to a year even when totally off pred so nothing is interfering with the process.
As the second paper says - there is a wide variation, presumably due to the vast range of actual pathways for individual patients but only about 5% have permanent poor function.
No need to ask your Rheumy now. I thought PMRpro would know and she has explained it well. I had been told previously , but brain does not always remember it all.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.