I was diagnosed mid- January ‘24 and my Rheumy is a bit on the aggressive side. Started at 20 mg and felt amazing. After a mo th we dropped to 15. All still great .He wanted to go 10 and I convinced him to go 12.5 and then 10 - 2 weeks each and now we are at 7.5. He said if you feel good feel free to drop to 5. I remain at 7.5. I have stayed active mostly walking activity. According to my Apple Watch about 5.5 miles per day which is what I have always done. No issues whatsoever until after a couple of weeks at 7.5
in the morning I wake up with biceps/ triceps that feel like I lifted weights the prior day and I didn’t. I have also noticed stiff hands - sort of like you get on a long hike when the blood collects there and your fingers swell. And my hands are more swollen as my wedding band is tight. None of this impacts me much - it’s just noticeable.
I am not in misery, just know that for sure we aren’t going lower for a bit. Certainly not while I have these early hints of a Flare. I am thinking the big drops for sure are over and maybe a few months at the current level to see if it improves? And then if does to reduce by 0.5 or 1 from then
Does that make sense or should I consider an increase as in the Flare protocol ?
Thanks very much for your help
Written by
NCStateLine
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Does it clear completely after you have taken the new day's dose of pred? Is it getting worse of staying just the same? What time do you take your dose? Have you thought of trying 8mg instead of the 7.5mg?
Each of those could have a bearing on this morning return of symptoms and your answers could have a bearing on what I would suggest.
I take my dose at 7 am every day and It clears up after a couple of hours. I have had no issues with sleep or any sign in hips, glutes. And it is staying the same. Haven’ t considered 8 yet as all the pills I have are 5’s and 2.5’s. I see rheumy in two weeks and for sure will get some 1’s. I was thinking stay at 7.5 for another month and see if it improves with time, and when stable go by 1/2’s from here on out- slowly. Thanks for such a quick response .
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.