Connect
← Return to PMR with normal labs and having severe thigh pain
Discussion
PMR with normal labs and having severe thigh pain
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Oct 28 11:18am | Replies (31)Comment receiving replies
After almost a year, I recently dropped down from 4 mg prednisone to 3.5 mg, as I learned the lower we go the more difficult it is and, therefore, I decided to do it in baby steps. Even with only a .5 mg. drop, I went into a full flare. Had recent visit to rheumatologist, who told me the rule of thumb is the bounce back to twice the mg. of what felt okay. So, here I am back at 8 mg, and yet still no relief. Just got my CRP and SED rate bloodwork done and all normal. Has anyone experienced normal bloodwork and still be in a PMR flare?
Thank you in advance for any responses relative to this frustrating PMR!!
Replies to "After almost a year, I recently dropped down from 4 mg prednisone to 3.5 mg, as..."
Update....8 mg still kept me stiff and in pain. My rheumatologist then instructed me to go on 15 mg. Yikes! While some of pain and stiffness gone in legs, I still have neck and hip issues. Had a follow-up endoscopy last week for ulcers an d gastro dr. now found fungus in my esophagus - most likely due to prednisone according to gastro dr. I'm thoroughly frustrated and disappointed at this point, as now another medication has been added to the list to deal with this new issue. I was so hopeful when I got down to 3.5 mg prednisone and now this bounce is causing more problems. Lifestyle, diet, and exercise have always been important to me, but I am the primary caregiver to my husband for over six years already and I know that brings a lot of stress to me each and every day. Started acupuncture two weeks ago and have fingers crossed that it proves fruitful in eliminating some of the stiffness. Anyone else experiencing a lack of relief even with higher dose of prednisone?
Connect
A prednisone flare and a PMR flare are almost identical in pain. I generally think most everyone has a prednisone flare when getting below about 7mg and particularly below 5mg. Its true it may restart PMR thats why they start you on MTX or some other anti inflammatory. Some do not have elevated markers with PMR. At least not elevated outside of normal. However unless you had a baseline test before PMR who knows what your normal might be. My thought its a prednisone flare from lack of cortisol. Or adrenal insufficiency. You can experiment with your dosage if you go back up. Go up then try to get back to 3.5 in the first week. Then the only solution is to taper very slow. Try to restart your adrenal system.