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Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (14)
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My rheumatologist always tells me about side effects, although due to the length of the visit he can't discuss all of them. He did that for the prednisone, then methotrexate, then Kevzara. He put me on Fosamax and vitamin D right away with the prednisone to prevent bone loss, though I did not have osteoporosis. I consider it my job to research other side effects. It's hard work having a disease, dealing with the complexities of insurance coverage , educating myself, and finding out what lifestyle changes are needed. We can't rely on the modern medical system to do all of this for us, unfortunately. I worry about what will happen as I decline cognitively and can't do this as well as I can now.
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I agree with you regarding navigating the "modern medical system". I have always advocated for myself in life. I feel like it's in my best interest to know the side effects of a medication prior to taking it. I don't rely on a doctor to tell me, as with prednisone, it would take a half hour! I am fortunate that I haven't had any issues with insurance. We don't need the additional stress in dealing with insurance companies. My providers submit to Medicare and it's taken care of.
For the first six months of my PMR/GCA journey, I would bring a printed list of questions/comments to my doctor's appointments. She appreciated it and I never left an appointment thinking that I forgot to ask a question.