I find the tapering of prednisone so illogical. Normally you would suspect that a slow reduction would allow your body to recover. We start at large doses, mine was 60mg in Oct 2025 for unconfirmed GCA, and then gradually get down to the 7.5mg, 5mg or 3mg doses and all hell breaks loose??? Weird symptoms of leg cramps, stiff neck, leg pain, shoulders stiff....but is this PMR or prednisone withdrawal?? Sometimes we push trough and it gets better, sometimes we up our dose out of fear that PMR is active again. I am presently at 1.5 mg and suppose to go to 1mg today but I have been running a low grade temp for the last 10 days. That was one of my first symptoms of GCA. I don't think prednisone withdrawal can cause a fever? I am in such a dilemma. I know if I consult my Rheumatologist, she would safely increase my dose.....but I am so close to being off. Anyone experience a relapse with a fever being a symptom? I appreciate any ideas.....I know 7 months on prednisone is nothing compared to most postings, but as you know.....the sooner off the better.
Thanks for any input.
Betty