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DiscussionHas anyone experienced dizziness with medication for PMR?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Sep 15 6:08pm | Replies (49)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I am experiencing dizziness which presents more like Vertigo because positional changes bring it on -..."
My very very best wishes to you going forward!!! All all we can do is take one day at a time and make decisions as we move along from day today. good luck to you and your new medication’s!!!
Higher doses of prednisone caused a dramatic increase in my blood pressure. I didn't have any prior cardiac history and I developed left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) along with cardiac arrhythmias. I suddenly needed 3 blood pressure medications. Later on ... a cholesterol lowering medication and "warfarin for life" were started after a massive bilateral pulmonary embolism.
When I was on a lower dose of prednisone, I had dizziness and full on black out spells when I needed to sit down or fall down. Eventually it was discovered that I didn't need so many cardiac medication. I convinced my primary care doctor that I didn't need my blood pressure medications. After I tapered off prednisone ... one by one all my blood pressure medications were stopped because my blood pressure was getting too low.
My cholesterol level was also getting too low so atorvastatin was stopped too. Finally, warfarin for life was also discontinued but my doctor was going to switch me to Eliquis (apixaban) instead. I had to make a case for not needing any blood thinner. Eventually, my doctor agreed and said I was probably more at risk of having a hemorrhage.
Some of my overall clinical picture was complicated by a low cortisol level which can also cause dizziness and cardiac problems.
According to artificial intelligence:
"Dizziness and cardiovascular issues:
Low cortisol levels can lead to several cardiovascular issues, including dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up due to low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension), rapid heart rate, fainting, and cold hands and feet due to poor circulation."
I can certainly report all of those things. All my symptoms mostly disappeared after I discontinued prednisone and after my cortisol level improved.