Increased steroids for a flare

[simps999]

I posted 8 days ago and I was grateful for your advice. I increased to 8mg and have been on that dose for 6 days now but still have the same symptoms. The usual ones that keep coming back. Buttock pain with weak legs and shoulder and neck stiffness and generally feeling off colour. I have been in this situation a few times before and recovered and been able to reduce again. I know that you can stay on the higher dose for upto 14 days before dropping to the dose above where you flared. Or for one week and then do it in two stages. However if I still have the same amount of pain after 6 days what do you suggest. I have never been a typical case !

(Rheumy appointment came through at last for the end of December. )

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

I’d take the increased dose for 14 days - and then reevaluate.

If it’s worked then drop down how you feel happiest with.

If however it’s not helped at all, then you need medical advice.

[simps999 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you. The first day of the increased dose I felt an improvement but not since then . Hopefully after two weeks I will.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Have you done your bit and behaved as a poorly person and rested? It isn't just a case of taking a pill - it is also adjusting your lifestyle as well.

[simps999 in reply to PMRpro]

I have tried hard not to do too much. I get what you are saying though. Thanks for your thoughts

[sidra1968]

I would definitely give it a little longer. It seems every flare is a bit different. To me that is what causes some of the anxiety and difficulty with this disease. It has a mind of it's own.

[simps999 in reply to sidra1968]

Thank you. Yes agree, it does cause anxiety and I am sure that doesn't help either

[Motida in reply to simps999]

Sorry to read about your situation. Although Pred is magical in many ways at first and then when we have flares, it only fully works if we rest up as much as possible - hard though that might be. Give yourself a chance and hope you feel better soon and can drop down to your normal dosage again. Kindest thoughts that things go well.

[simps999 in reply to Motida]

Thank you for your kind comments. Still struggling , but reminding myself to rest more. Not very good at that !