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secondary adrenal insufficiency with multiple autoimmune diseases
Does anyone have secondary adrenal insufficiency in addition to multiple autoimmune disorders? I have RA with PsA overlap, lupus, colitis and uveitis. The arthritis diseases are very advanced so my symptoms can be really nasty. Sick day rules of doubling daily prednisone are technically for when you're actually sick, like the flu, etc. My endocrinologist told me to triple my dose when I'm on antibiotics, which happens more frequently than you'd think, as I catch everything that comes down the pike. But lately, I've been having so many really "bad" days, without actually being "sick"; that I'm feeling like I need a double or triple doses of my normal prednisone. My regular daily dose is only 3.75 mgs. I'm not overweight and I'm taking Xeljanz for my arthritis. I use a lot of Tylenol and some Tramadol as well. I can't have Nsaids due to colitis. So, I'm not actually sick with a bug, per se, but I feel like hell. I'm going to discuss this with the endocrinologist and the rheumatologist, but I'd love to hear about others experience with this first.
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That’s a lot to deal with! Were you ever prescribed Hydroxychloroquine for Lupus? I ask because since starting it my muscle, tissue and joint pain has gone. I have not been diagnosed with Lupus, however some autoimmune issues are present with others suspected. I have no other explanation for the pain stopping. Before the med I had it daily for years. I see an Endocrinologist for my type 1 diabetes and rheumatologist for autoimmune issues, but it was my dermatologist who I see for psoriasis and hair loss who prescribed the med. Maybe you can ask you doctor about it.
Yes, Celia16. I was on Plaquenil for 32 years, but I eventually developed retinal toxicity to the drug. When you're prescribed this med, you're required to have regular visits to an ophthalmologist for visual field studies etc. That way they can catch it in time to prevent further damage to the retina.
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1 Reaction@rdf56 , I see. This is true and a reason I am not wild about taking it. I’ve only been on it for a few months and have had an eye exam by retina specialist. He said I was fine. The doctors have all said it’s an issue associated with long term use. Still….I’m concerned. So sorry you have these issues. I can’t imagine taking steroids due to my diabetes. It’s my understanding that it can cause significant increase in blood sugar.
Celia16- 32 years was a long successful run that really did do a tremendous job at keeping my lupus under control, despite 3 kids who were constantly playing outside in the sun I was told to avoid! I really wouldn't worry so much if I were you. Enjoy the benefits of the plaquenil and try not to worry about this issue. Good luck. Take care of yourself.
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