Covid and steroid increase

[Rosina1871]

I’m sure this has been answered before so apologies. I have Covid and on 2.75mg of steroids. Should I increase for few days or should I see how it goes? Thanks

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Really depends on how bad you feel -and only you know that..

This link on sick day rules does contain advice on covid -but it was written when people were affected more - and you should run it past your doctor -

medicinehealth.leeds.ac.uk/...

[Rosina1871 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank. Feel pretty rough but will speak to my rheumatologist tomorrow, if I can

[SnazzyD]

I just saw how it went even with the Delta variant that made be poorly for 3 months when I was on 0.75mg, but we are all different. I think it depends on how you feel too. If you are already struggling with low adrenal function and are feeling rather unwell then perhaps sick day rules. If you’re otherwise ok and feel moderately unwell it might be worth leaving. I had Covid badly last year when 2 years off Pred but needed a shot of hydrocortisone. It came out of the blue after a week of severe throat pain, little sleep, fever for 6 days of 39 or above and diarrhoea. The collapse was swift and unmistakable; you really know you are not winning with an adrenal crisis, it is very frightening. Felt better in the ambulance even before IV fluids, it was miraculous. Sorry, that wasn’t a straight answer was it?

[Rosina1871 in reply to SnazzyD]

Thanks snazzy. My adrenal function isn’t too bad . Will see how it goes

[SheffieldJane]

My Endocrinologist told me to double my dose with any illness to protect my Adrenal function. I do this if my illness feels significant - I always seem to have something like a cold or abdominal pain and diarrhoea, so I would never get anywhere if I kept doing sick day rules.

[Rosina1871 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you

[SnazzyD in reply to SheffieldJane]

I know what you mean!

If they did use those actual words, I don’t think they really meant that. It doesn’t protect the adrenal glands, it protects you from having an adrenal crisis if your glands aren’t up to the extra production of cortisol needed to cope with illness.

[Nap1]

I did. I would not wait for a flare.

[Rosina1871 in reply to Nap1]

Thanks for your reply