labs elevating.

[GMA74]

I’m so discouraged. Started on Pred 20 early Jan

Sed rate was 41 CRP 10.6. Decreased to 16 mg in March after CRP was 5.6 and sed rate 22. Decreased to 15 mg two weeks ago. Today sed rate is 44 & CRP is 19 .7 p. No pain but fatigue and weakness. Some neck discomfort and had tingling on scalp one evening. Vision is fuzzy but using frequent eye drops. Since Labs just came in I expect to hear back from Rheumatologist on Monday Do you think I’ll have to return to 20 again ?

[piglette]

Inflammation markers can go up for other things as well as PMR. Even the common cold can send them soaring up. The important thing is how do you feel, the blood tests are secondary. My SED rate has never been below around 50. The doctors have decided it is just me!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I think they might have been better sticking to 20mg until the markers were really low and stable - an ESR of 22 is still raised in my book. 20mg is enough for most - but some need 25mg to get a good clear out which is essential to be able to taper well. However - although you do have a few red flags there and they need to be mentioned to the rheumy, the markers may be due to something else, Have you had a cold? The bloods should be repeated to see if there is a trend.

[GMA74 in reply to PMRpro]

no cold. I have asthma but just some mild wheezing.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to GMA74]

Is the asthma active at present? That can raise CRP

[GMA74]

mildly this time of year but not bad