endoscopy and steroid dose

[Hidcote]

I have been having continuing stomach problems and have been sent for an endoscopy in early February. At the moment, I am reducing from 6.5 to 6.. The endoscopy is at 2pm. I normally take my steroids after taking a PPI and some yoghurt and cereal. I can do this at 7 as I am not supposed to eat for 6 hours before the procedure. I have had an endoscopy before but am quite worried about it. Do I need to increase my dose on the day of the procedure?

Thanks for you help. I might write separately to ask for advice for the stomach issues.

[MrsMarigold]

Hi Hidcote. Generally I’m on the lupus forum but I find good information here as well. I have an endoscopy twice a year. Mine is very narrow and swallowing gets difficult. Currently I’m down to 3 mg steroid daily. This procedure has never required that I change my steroid dose. It is a good question and if it really worries you then please ask your Dr. Best, MrsMarigold

[SheffieldJane]

I was advised not to take my steroid dose prior to a colonoscopy. The doctor added hydrocortisone to the IV. I felt fine. I imagine it is similar. They like to take control of all the drugs you take during the procedure. Good luck with everything!

I have developed chronic pain in the lower right abdomen (Diverticulosis) that has been flaring for a few months, suspected (Diverticulitis). On higher doses I experienced oesophageal spasms. I have been referred to Gastroenterology for an urgent, second colonoscopy, following an abnormal poo test result, to rule out cancer.

[Thelmarina in reply to SheffieldJane]

Good luck! Always worrying but good that you are being speedily looked after. It all gets very tiring! xxx

[PMRpro Ambassador]

As MrsMarigold says - you shouldn't need to unless you are exceptionally stressed about the procedure - and you will have the effect of the pred anyway since you can take it in the early morning before the procedure rather than having to wait until afterwards to take it.

If you are really worried, speak to the endoscopy unit about some sedation though that will probably mean you need someone with you to come home.

[Pusph]

Hi, I had an endoscopy several months ago and didn't have to increase my steroids dosage. I was told however to discontinue the Omeprazole for some days beforehand. I chose to be sedated and don't really remember anything about it. Good Luck.

[KASHMIRI1]

Good morning l had an endoscopy last March and took pred as normal. I had a hydrochotoson injection in the clinic before the procedure.

[Pixix]

Hi…I’ve had one, & it was very simple, quite short, & lots of reassuring staff! I now have to have another soon, & I’m not at all concerned…easy to say when you’ve had the experience, but just want to reassure you! Just think of how many hundreds of these are done each day!

[S4ndy]

I've had an endoscopy and colonoscopy neither required me to take extra steroids. The Consultant just told me to take my dose as normal. I did have sedation as I gag easily. I dont remember anything past the sedative injection Good luck with your investigations xxx

[Hidcote]

Thanks everyone for your help. One feels very alone with PMR so it is lovely to have help and advice from friends on the forum.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Hidcote]

why we are here….