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Gut problems while on steroids

Posted by macferse @macferse, Oct 18, 2022

I am currently on prednisolone for a second attack of PMR after 10 years free of it.
After 18 months on prednisolone, I started to have gut problems, loss of appetite, intermittent constipation and diarrhoea, several colonoscopies and finally an abscess leaking into my peritoneum with an emergency ileostomy and a stoma. The stoma was successfully reversed, but I quickly developed a post-incisional abdominal hernia. Since the operations, I have had a very good diet with very regular and normal bowel habits.
However, despite having made no changes in my diet or lifestyle, I have recently started to exhibit the same symptoms of intermittent constipation and diarrhoea.
I'm wondering if there is any evidence of a link between PMR and or long-term Prednisolone.

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Mentor
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Oct 18, 2022

Hi @macferse, I have not read anything about a connection between PMR and/or long-term Prednisone use and the symptoms of intermittent constipation and diarrhea but others may know more. Here's some information I found that lists some common causes of the diarrhea - constipation cycle.

"The cycle of constipation after diarrhea can happen for a few reasons. Some are more serious than others. We'll discuss the most common ..."
-- What Causes Constipation After Diarrhea?: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/constipation-after-diarrhea

Are you on any other medications?

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