Update after Doctors appointment to discuss symptoms unrelated to PMR on 1-2mgs Pred.

[larkthebark]

Went to see a different GP today who was very receptive and understanding.

Agreed that whilst 1-2mgs of Prednisolone is a tiny dose it can still have a profound effect when reduced, particularly if the adrenals are sluggish.

He also said that whilst the main symptoms of PMR are muscle pains, it is an ill understood disease, and my intestinal symptoms could even be related.

However, he plans to do a battery of blood tests on our return from our holiday on Thursday, and add in some gastric tests if my symptoms do not resolve. We are away for 2 weeks in Germany so see our son and his family.

Bloods will include a cortisol level and thyroid function.

In the meantime, we both agreed that it would be wise to stay on 2mgs despite being pain free.

Interestingly my blood pressure was through the roof when he took it which must have been 'handsome young doctor in a white coat syndrome '

I came away feeling so relieved that my symptoms were being taken seriously and reassured that this GP was also more PMR aware.

He even remarked at how PMR can go on for years despite popular opinion and thought I had done well at 2 and a half years. He reminded me that, of course 2mgs is a very small dose and better to continue until my withdrawal symptoms decrease and we have some blood results.

[123-go]

Your GP is a rare gem. He's obviously read the important updates to keep himself informed and is treating you as an individual. I think he deserves a Pride of Britain award 😄.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

There's a find! Hang on to him! Hope he teaches his colleagues.

Where in Germany - somewhere nice I hope!

[larkthebark in reply to PMRpro]

Our son lives in WaldMichelbach, a small town in the Odenwald just north of Heidelburg.

Its a beautiful area and of course our 2 granddaughters are always gorgeous. We drive there are find somewhere interesting to stop overnight to break up the long journey.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to larkthebark]

Oh yes - loved Heidelberg. OH had a colleague there, We lived a bit further west, Erlangen, in Franken.

[piglette]

What a find. Good to know that such doctors do exist.

[Suffererc]

your GP been secretly reading this forum and has taken it all in. Wow and wow again for his good looks and knowledge x x

[keeptalking]

I had a similar experience yesterday with a new rheumatologist at the hospital. I was listened to and given some sound thinking which made me believe she knew quite a lot about PMR. She was really interested in the slow taper asking me to explain it to her. She told me to listen to my body and give it it what it’s crying out for. The best GCA check I’ve ever had. They are out there😃😃.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to keeptalking]

good …

[borednow]

That mans a keeper!!

[Myfoe]

is your Dr for real?? He’s a rare gem for sure but he is also right remember the dead slow prednisone reduction rate too big a jump can bring on a flare and make one feel horrible even a 1mg reduction when you are on 2mg is a big jump hopefully you can salvage and enjoy some of your get away… best of luck to you

[larkthebark]

I still used DSNS method and stayed on alternate days for longer.

My symptoms ( not PMR symptoms) started about a week after doing just 1mg.

Now back on 2mgs i am feeling a little better and will stay there until blood tests .

Thanks for your input