Is the catarrh in my throat caused by Prednisolone?

[Handloomweaver]

I was diagnosed with CGA 7 weeks ago. I started Prednisolone on 60mg for 3 days, then 40mg for 2 weeks, and am now on 30mg. Ever since starting these medications I have had what feels like thick mucus in the back of my throat. After 4 weeks my GP prescribed a course of anti-biotic which had no affect on the mucus at all. He then gave me a nasal spray to stop nasal drip but this too doesn’t seem to be making any difference at all.

Is this problem a side effect of the steroids? Has anyone found a solution?

By the way, my tongue is also sore all the time.

[Seacat30]

I wonder whether this is due to GERD/acid reflux from the pred? Are you taking a PPI such as Lansoprazole or taking your pills with a meal?

[Handloomweaver in reply to Seacat30]

I’ve been taking Omeprazole every morning. I always take my meds after my breakfast too. I’m pretty sure it’s no acid reflux, but thank you.

[SheffieldJane]

I also have this issue and think that it is caused by GERD and linked to my long term Prednisalone use. Pred can cause GI issues, as I’ve learned to my cost, in spite of precautions.

healthline.com/health/overp...

Have you explored the possibility of thrush with your tongue? With a compromised immune system we can be prone to these issues. You do not say what kind of pain you have in your tongue. It is a listed GCA symptom - painful tongue.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I agree with SJ about the tongue possibly being thrush.

I have had a post nasal drip type/mucous effect as long as I have had PMR, nasal spray didn't help. Wasn't pred - was there long before pred.

[Lilicb]

hello. I have had the exact same problem! I have reduced steroids down to 10mg daily now but although mucus is still there , the sore mouth has improved a lot. I felt like it was post nasal drip but it appears not to be. Taking the lanzoprazole has no affect on the mucus levels. I also have a lot of breathlessness.

[Handloomweaver]

thank you everyone who replied to my post about mucus and a sore tongue. It seems that whilst there’s no perfectly identifiable single cause, it’s likely to be associated with the high Pred doses I am currently on (30mg). Especially as I didn’t have those symptoms before my GCA diagnosis. I will explore the tongue thrush theory too.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Handloomweaver]

I had oral thrush on high doses early days, took a couple of courses of antibiotics to clear it - never before, nor since...

[Handloomweaver in reply to DorsetLady]

that’s very interesting! I’m going to talk to my GP again. Thank you.