Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group prednisone or not?

Thanks, Cindy. No, I didn't know about the AS group in Pittsburgh. 110 miles is a bit far to go on a regular basis, but I could visit once or twice, then start my own here...if I ever get diagnosed with AS.

I'm working with the Arthritis Foundation in Pittsburgh right now on getting the Arthritis Self Care Management Program (think I got that name right) offered here in Erie this fall. That would be a start.

Of course, I don't know why I'd bother going to the class when I don't have arthritis, only a propensity to injury.

I requested a copy of the office notes from the rheumy visit last Monday. As soon as I get my hands on them, I'll have a more clear idea of what this doc was thinking. I was getting too emotional by the end of that appoitnment to get him to clarify a few things I wish I would have asked. And, in fairness to the doc, I have to add that he didn't rush me out of there. At the end, he slowed down, told me what he wanted me to do and why, asked if it was okay with me and gave both me and my husband time to answer and ask questions. If I hadn't been trying not to cry, I might have been lucid enough to pick his brain a bit more. I know I can always call back with questions, but I'd rather start with reading the office notes.

Karen

Hi, Karen:

My official position on steroids is to avoid them at all costs.
However, if nothing else is working to take down a severe flare, the pred taper is a good approach.

Well, it is not one I would do, because fasting always takes down my flares.

But I realize that not everyone can fast.

As others have mentioned there are numerous side effects (a load of twenty main ones are memorized by some medical students). With the taper, perhaps all or most of these can be avoided.

HEALTH,
John

Sue,

I'd wait til the MRI if you can....

60mg is high, for first time etc ( high dose like that for me is when IBD and eyes bad, only 25 mg for AS flare)

There are risks, but all meds have risks. You should have caltrate and vitamin D...if it's sunny get outside but so n't get brunt you will not notice as much on the steroids.

I hope this works for you!

Dave

You should not ignore all symptoms even if the dose is temporary. Report severe chest pains after walking. Severe fatigue. Severe problems walking or breathing. Severe depression. If your married, having a strong support network is very important.

Tim

Karen
I am not for sure if it is the same thing that I took but it sounds the same. The first day I took 6 pills and then each day less for I think a week or so. I think it was called a medrol pack or something like that. It had prednisone in it. The only side effect that I had from it was I was very irritable. Things that would not bother me seemed to be horrible. Made mountain out of mole hills. hee hee Had a lot of mood swings. It was only for a week so it was not bad. However it did not help my pain in my feet so I am not for sure if my feet hurt because of inflamation. I have heard a lot of stories about how it has helped a lot of people.

Keep us posted on your MRI

hugs
Kell