Cortisone injection flushing and lymphedema

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Sher
Sher Member Posts: 540
edited November 2015 in Lymphedema

Because of DJD osteoarthritis, I'm planning to have steroid injections in both knees soon to help with the pain. When I had the injections several years ago (before lymphedema), I had what I guess is called a flushing reaction to whatever medication was used. The flushing was on my face, neck, down both arms and trunk and antihistamine (Claritin) seemed to help with this, but the redness did still last a day or two. Doctor later said Benadryl would probably have been a better choice. This time around I have lymphedema in my left hand, wrist and forearm and am wondering if the flushing would have any bearing on the lymphedema? Not sure what is actually happening in the body when this flushing occurs?


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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited October 2015

    Sher: it is a listed adverse reaction to steroids. I would recommend starting Claritin daily for a couple days before the injections and for a day or two afterwards. Yes, Benadryl might work better, but if you are on tamoxifen, you cannot take Benadryl. Since you are not getting the injection in your LE area,,, I do not think it would have a bearing on it,, but not 100% sure.

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  • Sher
    Sher Member Posts: 540
    edited October 2015

    Thanks Glennie, I decided to opt out of the injections for the time being - probably wouldn't help much at this point anyway.


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  • SpecialK
    SpecialK Member Posts: 16,486
    edited November 2015

    I had flushing with steroids each time I had chemo - same as you describe, usually lasting 24 hours or so. I developed lymphedema about half way through chemo. About two years after the LE diagnosis I needed a cortisone injection in my right knee, and had the same type of flushing reaction - more intense though, I assume based on the amount of the drug, but no illeffect on my lymphedema.

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