Tapering

[MargaritaRose]

I was diagnosed with PMR in January 2019....I think I had had it for at least 9 months prior to that. I was started on pred.25mgms. Ive done fairly well and now down to 3mgms, tapering very slowly.

I seem to be experiencing some 'tummy upsets' and I wonder if this is related to this low dose?

Any thoughts

[singingloud]

My tummy upsets are caused by stress that stirs up my IBS lately. You’re doing well to get as low as you are on prednisone and not experiencing any pain. Others can be of more help in answering your question. Have you tried an acid reducer for your tummy?

[SnazzyD]

Hello, how do you feel in yourself? What kind of tummy upset and how is it affecting you and how often?

Low adrenal function can cause loose stool and tummy ache and some people find they become more allergic to things for a while as the Pred is withdrawn. I had various food intolerances for a number of months. However, it is worth just stepping back to consider other things as well.

[MargaritaRose in reply to SnazzyD]

thank you

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

As said could be adrenals stuttering - adrenal insufficiency can cause upset stomach as well as other things - see this -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[MargaritaRose in reply to DorsetLady]

thank you v much. I am having blood tests on Monday.I will ask for Basal cortisol test.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Low pred that isn't being compensated for with cortisol production by the adrenal glands lagging behind the tapering can result in diarrhoea and stomach ache which are amongst the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.

[MargaritaRose in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks so much....I suddenly wondered if that was what was happening