Increasing Prednisone before hospital visit

[HelenDaisy]

I have tried to contact my rheumatology department and GP but with no luck. I'm having a gastroscopy and colonoscopy tomorrow.

Previously pre-surgery I have upped my steroid dose for a day to cope with the stress, and I wonder if I should do this tomorrow. I am very nervous about it.

My current dose is 6.5mg, tapering to 6mg.

I'd be grateful for any advice Thanks

[123-go]

A similar question was asked a while ago. Take a look....healthunlocked.com/theibsne...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I realise I'm not really typical because I don't stress about such things so I didn't - but a gastroscopy and colonoscopy isn't really in the same league as surgery, usually no GA for a start and no real procedure done even if they take a biopsy.

However, I would take pred with me and ask the team - they will know if you might need a bit more. The nurses there are very experienced too.

[HelenDaisy in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you. Good idea to take prednisone with me.

[USAGCA in reply to HelenDaisy]

Hi. Be careful if they are doing a gastroscopy. The pill might not get absorbed due to the endoscope. Also, anxiety itself can delay the absorption. Then you’re not sure what you actually got. It’s a low risk procedure. You should not need supplemental steroids.

[HelenDaisy]

My rheumatologist has just phoned me. What a lovely woman. No increase is needed for my procedure.

[SheffieldJane]

During my recent Colonoscopy the doctor performing it injected me with Cortisone. He decided on the dose, so I am glad I didn’t take extra myself. Good luck!

[HelenDaisy]

Thanks for the comments and suggestions. I'm all done, not too bad really. But I doubt my prednisone this morning stayed in my stomach long enough to get absorbed, without going into details!