Hi...I've had the flu (not Covid) for about 10 days at this point. I don't know what to expect in terms of will it last longer due to PMR and the autoimmune aspect? I've never had so much mucus and phlegm, but at least it's loose. I can fill at least 3 tissues in one blow of the nose. Makes one wonder where it's all being stored. Not been sick like this since years before Covid pandemic.
I woke up one morning with razor blades in my throat and it escalated to slight fever, dry/wet/wheezy cough, headaches, etc. Extreme fatigue (more than usual with the PMR). I do find that a simple Claratin pill helps more with the coughing and itchy/irritated throat, than any cough syrup. Acetominophen/Ibuprofen for fever. Still at 13.5 mg Pred and wondering if the Prednisone is keeping it at bay, or just keeping it. Went to GP who did absolutely nothing, not even check my chest or breathing. He did order labs, but as yet have not heard anything on these. The Covid test done at the hospital was negative, as well 4 negative rapid tests.
Tried to work, but my job is talking on the phones, working from home (good thing). It did not go well.
Why am I writing just now? It seems as though it might be wanting to ramp up again, if today is any indication. If I'm rambling, sorry.
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Missus835
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I doubt the PMR would have much influence - but the pred might have a dual effect, calming any inflammation a bit and helping your chest but maybe blunting your immune system's response to the flu.
Had you had the flu jab? They are warning here of an early and severe flu epidemic this year - judging by the Aus experience at least. A lot of people are likely to get the flu because of the lack of flu epidemics in the last 3 seasons because of lockdown and wearing masks etc and not being exposed to the viruses. Both RSV ( cdc.gov/rsv/index.html ) and scarlet fever are rampant and affecting adults despite usually being childhood illnesses.
I shall be more conscientious about my masks I think - I've had both flu and Covid jabs though.
Thanks for responding so quickly. No never had flu jab...ever. Been masking up again and wish I'd never stopped. I also believe the Pred is helping with the inflammation. Do you think I should up it? There is a severe lack of caring (or so it seems) and overwhelmed medical system here in Nova Scotia and so, without this site (thank you), it's like being out in left field alone, even with a dodgy rheumatologist who has yet again bumped my follow-up appointment to Dec. 9 (so that's 6 months instead of 4) and a GP who seems to be afraid to do anything but print out lab requisitions. No followup from either. My assumption with these tests and doctors is that if we don't hear back on them there's nothing to be alarmed about (and then I wonder if the GP even remembers I have PMR). Had he listened to my chest, he could have ruled out pneumonia or bronchitis, but instead did a req for a "R/O pneumonia" chest x-ray, which I can't get until December 20th. I felt like giving him a shake and saying "yes, I have the flu but did you forget I also have PMR". End of rant.
You poor, poor thing, it sounds like hell. Have you looked at FAQs on here and the sick day rules information? It may help you to increase your dose to 20 mgs. Normally the advice would be to discuss this with your doctor first. I don’t hold out much hope with your “ dial it in” doctor. Have a read of it and see if it applies to you. Get well soon.
Thanks SheffieldJane. I'll check out the sick day rules right now. The dial in doctor thing is useless. I was better off with the neurologist to whom I was first referred on an emergent basis. He was extremely concerned, helpful and empathetic. This rheumie lives up to her reviews which are scathing. I have an attitude of open mindedness, which was completely dashed by her. Cheers!
You will always find such things in the FAQs, there is a link under the post at the top of every thread. And strangely - they are under S for sick day ...
Actually I'm on the east coast and also increased Pred by 5 mg. (so now at 18.5) after reading Sick Days. That's probably what kept me awake. Tried some Lemon Balm tea, but no go. It will level off. Usually a good sleeper.
Is this it? I am not very techie. If you look to the right of this post there are sick day rules for Prednisalone - tap on those. I know that there is a better way but my head’s not working.
Thanks. Booked a return visit to GP today and will show him the short and long version of Sick Day Rules. Also, they booked a chest x-ray for me which is also this afternoon. Had he listened to my chest last week, I may not have required an x-ray. All good. You girls are amazing. 🔥
I can offer you some practical advice for the phlegm. Avoid milk and dairy products. Try old fashioned steam inhalations, towel over the head over a bowl of steaming water. You can add Friars Balsam or vicks or menthol/ eucalyptus oil. Stay indoors for at least an hour afterwards - esp in Canada if cold outside. Can you get Carbocysteine syrup there? It thins the mucus making it easier to cough up and out. Honey and hot lemon to sip is soothing. Paracetamol (acetominophen) 2x500mg tabs four times a day to keep temperature down. And if you can, just rest!!
Thanks. Very helpful and yes been doing most of that. The weather here in NS changes every 5 mins so right now extremely mild, dropping down overnight. One never knows what to where. Layers works I guess. Thanks again.
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