Can high dose, long term Prednisone Make LE worse?

cinnamonsmiles

On July 31st, I had a mass removed from my lung from hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

After it was removed, the pulmonologist put me on high dose, long term Prednisone.

I started in August on 60 mg prednisone a day for two weeks. After that, every 4th day I have been decreasing by 5 mg. I end the prednisione in October.

I have noticed that my LE in my arms seems to be acting up worse. I have been more actively using my arms for things (after 6 weeks of not doing as much because of lung surgery recovery).

I know that Prednisone can cause fluid retention ( I can tell my face is swelling. It is literally round now.) and that extra fluid can be bad for LE.

I really don't have anyone competent enough around here to ask, so I thought maybe someone on here would know?

Thanks

kira66715

Cinnamon, prednisone, especially at high doses, can definitely cause swelling--like the "moon face" you're noticing. It does reduce inflammation, but has a ton of side effects.

I think when you finish the wean, your LE will settle down.

Check out "Cushing's Syndrome" as that is what high dose prednisone does to your system

cinnamonsmiles

You were certainly right, Kira (like I had any doubts, hahaha. You are so important to us on this board.)

My LE has settled down now that I have been off steroids for a week. It was certainly a rough patch. Thanks for the heads up....I was worried for a bit that my LE would get worse and not settle back down to my "normal" LE.