Does or has anyone suffered depression while on Prednisone?

Hi.. I'm glad to find someone about the same age as me (72) with PMR and still actively employed, although part time. I was diagnosed in Oct 2021. Started with 15 mg. I'm now down to 5 mg. However, 2 weeks ago, I felt the most painful pain in my groin area (left side) next to my left hip that I had to limp. I was seen at the ER but drs thought I was having a stroke because of the numbness on my left leg and thigh. I was admitted to the hospital for further observation. Stroke was ruled out but none of the drs could relate the pain to PMR. No one seems to know what the disease is. I now use a cane to help me ambulate. I will see my Rheumatologist in 2 weeks. All this time, I was still holding a full time 40-hr a week job. I refused to be sidelined by this disease or feel sorry for myself. I hope I find others who are in a similar situation and still holding on to their jobs.

I also have a "pain in the groin". It is my hip flexor tendons, mostly on the right side. A form of tendonitis and therefore inflammation. No numbness, but it does occasionally give out. Almost go down. It's not even constant. What a relief, but when it's acting up...it's painful. I'm trying to get my walking routine going or somewhat, but that's when my hips tighten up. I don't know if it's irritating them or if I keep on...maybe they'll get used to it. I also refuse to let this sideline me. Also refuse to use a cane, walker or anything else. Not ego. If I thought a cane would help, I might use one. Whatever works for us. After going through 5 months of my daughter helping me dress, helping me in and out of the car, not being able to wipe myself, needing a riser seat, etc. I've come a long way. I post on here so that others may know they're not alone and there's hope in determination.

I have had this desease nearly two years I was started on 30mg now on 5mg does this cause depression as I am so low and I'm not a depressive person I really need some help

Prednisone can cause depression for some people. That is how it effects me. I won’t take it for that reason. It’s hard enough to have to struggle with PMR. I can’t imagine clinical depression and PMR together:(:(:(

Betsy, how are your other labs? The reason I ask is because at the beginning of the year I had an episode of depression and fatigue that I couldn't account for. Felt very organic. My white count was up above normal and my monocytes were up. Primary doc suspected a virus (but not Covid). I just took care of myself the best I could, lots of D amd C , stuff for my immune system, I'm sure you know the drill. Interestingly, I was tapering on my pred at the time and then I flared (after the "virus") and had to go back up. My white count (and my mood) are back to normal now but stil at 12 mg of pred so doesn't seem related. But the depression is alful, I know. See your regular doc and see what else could be happening. You will be in our thoughts.

I Betsy @betsy1958, I would like to add my welcome along with @kimmur, @suetex and others. You will notice that we moved your post to an existing discussion on the same topic. I'm sorry to hear that you are having depression side effect of prednisone along with the PMR. You mentioned that you are down to 5mg prednisone now in your 2 year journey with PMR. My first round with PMR lasted 3-1/2 years but I made some lifestyle and eating changes the second time around and it helped me taper off of prednisone in about 1-1/2 year. I agree with @suetex that it might be a good idea to discuss your symptoms and possibilities with your doctor or rheumatologist.

Has the depression just recently started or has it been for the entire 2 years while on prednisone?

Hi no it has come on in the last 6 months maybe it has nothing to do with the meds but have got an appointment next week with the doctor

Thank you

I'm stuck between 12.0 and 12.5 with the taper and feel rotten and also quite depressed I think. My appetite is dwindling after being ravenous for months. I don't know about my blood work done a few weeks ago, because the Rheumatologist has not shared that gem with me and the nurses cannot divulge it. I tapered from 13.75 down to 12.5 and have felt terrible since. Due to drop down to 12.0 next week. Somehow I put my lower back out and the Prednisone is not touching that pain at all. I don't have a GP (he retired). The Rheumatologist is more difficult to reach than the gods. I've not felt depressed until now. In pain, until Prednisone, but not depressed. The fatigue is off the charts. Good thing I only work in the mornings, because I sleep in the afternoons and sleep at night. I could go on...but won't. Hugs to you my friend.

Yikes! I hope you can get a new Primary soon "cause you need someone you can reach! I know about the sleeping, seems necessary. I, too take naps. Please stay in touch with us and let us know how you are doing..