My wife went to the ER twice before entering hospital for a week for treatment of bronchitis/pneumonitis secondary to hyper-allergic response to the seasonal pollen here in south Texas. She was given steroids in the ER and hospital and prescriptions for more upon release. In the hospital she began swelling in belly and legs and ankles which has continued to involve the neck and face. She is getting additional corticosteroids via her inhalers. An ice storm has stopped us from a scheduled followup appointment with her PCF. Her cough has subsided. She fears another ER visit. and more steroids -- but she is unrestful and very depressed at her swelling---she gained 18 pounds in a week!! Can we stop all steroids--pills and inhalers? And can we expedite her relief of these side affects in any way? Oh--she is HepC pos and I am afraid the steroids will allow the virus to go amuck. She is scheduled to see her liver specialist the first week in Feb.