Cold face

[Gladys911]

Hi - back up to 40 pred and getting a symptom I had when I was first diagnosed with GCA a year ago. My face is very cold. It isn't painful, just a bit weird but I wonder whether anybody else has had this? I don't think it can be harmful because I did have it before and it seems to go away when the dose reduces.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

That's one I haven't heard before!!!!

[AJJ100]

I've also had this happen. I have SLE lupus and heart failure and although it's a strange sensation, I thought nothing of it. I am currently on 6mg Prednisolone as well as mulitude of other medications. Sorry that I can't give you an answer to this Glady911.

[Gladys911 in reply to AJJ100]

Many thanks - I didn't really expect to know why, but it is useful to know if others get similar reactions! I only get it on higher doses, but I also live in an old cold house which probably doesn't help.☺️

[AJJ100 in reply to Gladys911]

I think it's reassuring to know you're not on your own. BTW my house is cold as well 😂 Take care

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Gladys911]

Now you come to mention it though - my nose was really cold almost all the time I was in the UK in July and August. Just sitting here on a campsite in northern Italy, not what I'd call warm out there, hasn't made it to 20C and loads of clouds so little sunshine - and my nose is lovely and warm ...

[AtopicGuy]

Does your face feel cold to the touch (get someone else to check) or do you just experience the sensation of coldness on your face? Is it in fact hot, sweaty or red?

I came across this reference to "facial flushing" as a side effect of high-dose steroid injections. Perhaps you are more sensitive than most patients?

mayoclinic.org/steroids/art...

One of the many roles of the blood is distributing heat evenly around the body, like the water in a central heating system. Changes in the circulatory system can interfere with this process. Hopefully it will settle down as you adjust to the new dose.

[Gladys911 in reply to AtopicGuy]

Thanks AG - it feels cold to the touch, not hot red or sweaty. Useful link!