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New Dx of PMR

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (30)

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@seniormed

You will find many helpful suggestions scrolling through
the PMR group comments. It sounds like your physician
is aware of your concerns on handling prednisone.
Not all of us experience long term need for prednisone.
You well might be done in a matter of months. The
side effects are manageable and mostly preventable at
your early diagnosis. Know all your lab results and keep
a copy of all your records. If you are concerned about
blood pressure you can easily monitor it with a home
unit.I always took my meds with a meal and use an antacid at night. Mediterranean diet helps with inflammation and weight control. Blood sugar can be checked every few weeks at home. A bone density scan and vitamin D with calcium supplement is indicated as well. If you need a higher dose for symptom control
you can feel more confident and stay active. Walk
every day. If you are proactive and stay positive you
are most likely to do well. Share all your concerns at
regular visits with doctor.

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Replies to "You will find many helpful suggestions scrolling through the PMR group comments. It sounds like your..."

I agree with @seniormed that the prednisone side effects don't happen to everyone and are manageable. I have GCA and PMR, and I started on prednisone almost 8 months ago beginning at 60 mg a day. I stayed at that level for 6 weeks, and now I have tapered down to 8 mg. I've also been injecting Actemra weekly for 7 months. I've only gained 3 pounds in 8 months, and I've been able to continue exercising. I had some muscle problems as I tapered the prednisone, but those seemed to have resolved once I got down to 10 mg per day, I just had a bone scan, and my bone density is ok. I take calcium and vitamins D3 and K2 daily, I'm going to have to start taking a statin to control high cholesterol triggered by the pred and Actemra, so that is one side effect I have experienced.

The quality of my life is much much better now than it was before I started the prednisone and Actemra.

Does anyone take probiotic with Prednisone?