Increased Prednisone

[1951grumpa]

Hello, earlier this past summer I posted that I got off hydrocortisone and back on prednisone. I started at 5mg prednisone a dose that had for years been enough to keep my symptoms at bay. This wasn’t enough so my new rheumatologist put me to 7.5. Sloley but methodically the inflammation increased and my markers went up. MyCRP was 17 , my normal is less than <3 so she put me on 20 mg for two weeks to see if this would knock the inflammation. If so a biologic, Kevzara would be use . I had tried 10 mg for a couple weeks before but no results. Well the 20mg did smash the inflammation. So I am now on a trek to 10mg in a couple months. Reducing 2.5m every two weeks. I the inflammation returns then Kevzara . The Kevzara has some serious side effects, especially those with a history of diverticulitis , of which I have had. After my last bout a few years ago I had a consult with a colorectal surgeon.

Two other issues have crept their way in . This summer I have been bothered with PVC’s . I first was bothered with them 30 years ago. I went to Mayo Clinic in September for an annual check up and was put on a 30 day holter monitor. Results are in but waiting for a call this week for recommendations. Also last December I had a surgery for a small anal fistula. It healed well, but I think it has returned, so Friday morning I sent an email ago my dr. At the University of Chicago and now I have an appointment on November 11th with the colorectal surgeon that worked on me last December.

It’s been a long time , 10 years , that I’ve been on a higher dose . Sleepless nights,like tonight have been common . My wife is at the brunt of my short fuse…..I have switched to caffeine free coffee. The P has raised my BP. I can’t imagine those of you that are on 60mg prednisone. "………………………..Well enough of my rant at this wee hour here in Illinois.(1:50am) Thanks for listening,(reading) Geo.

I

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

No advice, but do you realise you have posted this twice… guess you meant to edit previous one but it’s come up as new post.