fluid in hands and ankles

[Whitner]

Good morning! I’ve been off prednisone for two months after having been on about six years. I am experiencing sore fingers that seem to be fluid filled in the early morning hours and get better as the day progresses. Also a swollen ankle in just one leg especially when sitting or standing for long periods . Is this a result of being off prednisone? Would really appreciate your thoughts.

[Seekingasolution]

hi Whitner, no doubt someone better informed will be along shortly but fluid in joints sounds like inflammation and could be down to PMR or something else like arthritis. Did you have those symptoms before you took prednisone? A chat with your doctor sounds like a good idea.

[Whitner in reply to Seekingasolution]

No I didn’t have these symptoms prior to PMR ☹️

[Grammy80]

Hi, I would definitely consult a doctor. There is a reason. Usually folks with fluid in the hands..their hands are slimmer in the morning? Since it is just one ankle...you do need to find out why. Hope you can follow up.💞

[Whitner in reply to Grammy80]

Thank you. I did send an email to my rheumatologist. I’ll see what she says.

[HeronNS]

I've also been off pred for a few months (longer than you now) and didn't note any change like you have. Any symptoms of osteoarthritis damped by pred had reappeared long before I tapered to zero.

Found this, and agree with the others that a doctor appointment is in order to rule out anything more serious than arthritis:

healthline.com/health/swoll...

Congratulations on getting off pred, by the way!

[Whitner]

Thank you! These weird symptoms are making me nervous. I’ll let you know what I find out. Appreciate the comments but I wish you had said this is common after going off prednisone 😊

[AtopicGuy]

There are lots of potential causes, including drug side effects, but it's unlike to be steroid-withdrawal. You really need to consult your GP/FD/PCP as only they know your full history.

[Whitner in reply to AtopicGuy]

Thanks AtopicGuy. I’m getting a Doppler and ultrasound on Tuesday to be sure I don’t have a blood clot somewhere.

[Seekingasolution in reply to Whitner]

What was the outcome Whitner? I just looked back to see what you learned . Hope all ok

[Whitner in reply to Seekingasolution]

No clots. The veins in my legs are fine. I went back on prednisone and the ankle swelling dissipated.