I think I have a problem again…

[Crochetgirl65_]

I am 68, have been suffering with PMR for approx 10 years. I have previously got down to zero pred but not for long as there was a family upset that left me needing to go back on pred again. 3mg at first, I’m down to 2mg now.

On Monday I had a colonoscopy (looks all ok ) then o incident I had a appt the follow day to see a consultant about problems with haemorrhoids. This was to be a chat only as far as I was aware however the consultant decided he could sort things out straight away and performed a banding of the culprit. Though I was very grateful to be sorted out so quickly it was very, very painful!!! Next, on getting home I find I can’t pass urine, then I can, and then I get horrendous cystis!I call the hospital who tell me to ring 111, who in turn contact t my surgery and I end he day with some antibiotics because I have a UTI. So sorry about all the grafic details! I decided I ought to take more pred than usual just n case so I took 3mg this morning. I have been feeling worse as the day has progressed, nausea, can’t get warm and so tired! Should I take more pred? If so how much, for how long and when can I go back to 2mg? Grateful for any advice . Thanks for reading such a l g story.

I don’t know how to put a new comment on so I hope this is available to all. First of all, always thank you so much for your prompt replies and support.

I rang 111 who were good but just told me if symptoms got worse go to A&E. Anyway I doubled up on my pred dose and started to feel a bit better, gave my husband all the info and went to bed. I was again improved a little y morning and took a doubled up dose of Pred again and by lunchtime was much improved.

I’ve done a lot of sleeping, and I am still on double dose but feel much like my old self again.

Thanks again all, I’m sorry for getting everyone so worried 🥲

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Personally I think you do need more pred, definitely Sick Day Rules which means double your usual dose. But I think it would also be a good idea to call 111 again and ask for advice. What you are describing could well be due to adrenal insufficiency and if it gets worse you COULD have an adrenal crisis. If you feel a lot worse, become confused, dizzy and/or faint, call 999 and tell them, Have you got someone with you or are you on your own?

[Crochetgirl65_ in reply to PMRpro]

I have my husband here. I’ll tell him what the plan is. Thank you so much for you prompt reply.

[SnazzyD]

To be honest I would be calling 111 in case of infection/sepsis. It would be worth discussing potential adrenal insufficiency too. If there is a wait I might double the 3mg and see if makes you feel better but given your trials this week, I wouldn’t just assume adrenal insufficiency alone.

[Crochetgirl65_ in reply to SnazzyD]

Thank you

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Crochetgirl65_]

Snazzy is quite right - not that simple. Do call 111.

[Sillydogsmum]

As above, as a matter of some urgency , particularly if you are running a temperature.

[marionofnorwich]

Please keep us updated. Sounds a bit nightmarish and you need some help. Fingers crossed for quick responses

[Hulotsholiday]

I have nothing to help, other than to say how sorry I am to hear of your difficulties. You must feel awful, so my thoughts are with you. I count my blessings daily when I hear how others are struggling. Very best wishes.

[Crochetgirl65_ in reply to Hulotsholiday]

Thank you so much for your kind thoughts. I do appreciate it.