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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety When Diagnosed With Chronic RA

Hi, I have needed to take prednisolone for rheumatoid arthritis for the past 7 years (as it was the only thing I could take during my child bearing years). The first 3 years I was taking around 5 mg per day and am now taking 10mg per day (sometimes 15) and have done this for the past 2 years. I am beginning my actemra treatment this week in the hope that I can taper down the prednisolone without the flare ups. My concern now is that I have been becoming increasingly anxious the last 2 years. I put it down to having my last baby 2 years ago, however it is not improving and I seem to be getting worse. I get very easily agitated and feel that I am overly worried constantly about nothing. My husband is now getting very concerned about my moods which are very up and down and at times the anxiety is making it hard to sleep. I am worried that the prednisolone is causing this but I cannot simply stop taking it after so many years. I am also going to make an appointment with my local doctor but am wondering if you could please give me some advice. I have already tried exercise and meditation etc but it has had no benefit for me
Mon, 30 Mar 2020
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General Surgeon 's  Response
Hello,

The long term steroid intake is associated with many of the side effects, however more important and relevant for you are:
- insomnia
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Palpitation

As it is a very long period dependency, it is not recommended to simply withdraw it from the system and make the situation worse. Rather addition of Melatonin (3 mg) is best recommended at present after discussion with your doc and later on dose tapering strategy for steroid is best recommended.

Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon
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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety When Diagnosed With Chronic RA

Hello, The long term steroid intake is associated with many of the side effects, however more important and relevant for you are: - insomnia - Anxiety - Dizziness - Palpitation As it is a very long period dependency, it is not recommended to simply withdraw it from the system and make the situation worse. Rather addition of Melatonin (3 mg) is best recommended at present after discussion with your doc and later on dose tapering strategy for steroid is best recommended. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel, General Surgeon