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Adjusting to life with temporal arteritis

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jan 13 9:52am | Replies (217)
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@becsbuddy

@cadenise1 There are so many side effects to prednisone and everyone reacts differently. My sister, who also has an autoimmune disease, got the rounded ‘chipmunk’ cheeks, but I didn’t. Her bones remained healthy, but I developed osteoporosis. Fatigue is something almost everyone gets.
To avoid osteoporosis, add calcium to your diet. If there will be time before the surgery, ask your PCP for a referral for a DEXA-scan to check the baseline health of your bones. The scan is then repeated every two years.
Fatigue: you don’t fight it, you manage it. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/how-do-you-plan-your-day-and-conserve-energy-are-you-a-spoonie/
Avoid people with infections. Get your vaccines! Wear a mask in crowded places.
OK. My fatigue is taking over so I need to rest! I’m sure that other members will join the discussion soon.
Why are you having the adrenalectomy?

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Replies to "@cadenise1 There are so many side effects to prednisone and everyone reacts differently. My sister, who..."
pb50 | @pb50 | Nov 20, 2023

So true Becky. As is true for virtually every drug and every underlying condition, we are all wired differently.

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cadenise1 | @cadenise1 | Jan 13 9:52am

Hi Becky - thanks for all the helpful info. It has been a big change for sure. I had the bilateral surgery because my body was overproducing cortisol and I had all of the classic symptoms of Cushing disease. I do have another question for you which is I have the flu and am on medication but feeling really horrible and I do not have a resource at Mayo until they reopen from the weekend. I believe when someone who has had an adrenalectomy gets sick such as the flu the patient is supposed to double up on the prednisone that they have been prescribed. I have been digging through my notes to confirm that but thought I would check here to see if anyone knew a definitive answer, if you have any knowledge, please share. Thanks so much!

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