Steriods not working

[amyrose]

Okay. Need someone with experience here. My GP had me on 20 mg of steroids per day and told me my symptoms should be better in 2 - 3days. I called after threedays to tell her that things weren't improving. She uped my dose to 40mg per day. It's been 2 days on 40mg and still have joint and muscle pain and swelling. I feel pretty crappy. Should this be working? Am also getting frustrate with this wait for the rheumy. Haven't heard a dang thing about when my appointment is to see them. http://www.thelupussite.com/public_html/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/baaa.gif I just was told Friday that my GP is 90% certain I have lupus and already feel like it's been months. http://www.thelupussite.com/public_html/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif Poor me http://www.thelupussite.com/public_html/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Thanks for the ears.
Amy

[RosemaryP]

Amy, steroids do not do a thing in pain relief for me either. I have fibromyalgia and the pain is worse on prednisone, of course I have SLE as well. Swelling will occur with a Lupus flare and also with prednisone. How long are you to be on 40mg a day? Has the GP allowed for you to come down on prednisone, those are the questions we need answered.

[Sannie]

Hi Amy

I am sorry you have'nt gained much relief from the steroids.

Every doctor seems to have his/her way of prescribing steroids so it really does seem to be a case of trial and error for most of us!

It could be that the dose is'nt high enough or that you need to take them for longer before you notice any significant improvement.

I think you should also insist that your GP chases up your appointment with the rheumatologist because it would be best if you are seen while you have symptoms and are feeling so unwell.

Take care.

Love
Sannie