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Question

I am 61, female w/Crohns for 35 yrs. Taking hydrocortisone 80 mg daily. Can I ask the Dr. to increase. Am fatigued. I worked for a gastroenterologist but she retired and moved out of state. Help.

Submitted: 458 days ago.
Category: Health
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Age: 61

Posted by Dr.Mian 457 days and 22 hours ago.

Info Request

Hi
I have questions to ask in order to get better idea about your concern.

Why would you like to increase the dose of hydrocortisone?

Is it fatigue issue that yu think can be helped with increased dose of hydrocortisone or some other concern?

Regards

457 days and 22 hours ago.

Reply

In the past the Dr. has increased it when I get this fatigued. I also have an ileosotomy. no rectum and fistulas that are draining. I can barely make it out of bed in the morning for about a month now. I was taking Cipro 500 mg. twice a day. But I finished that two weeks ago.

Posted by Dr.Mian 457 days and 22 hours ago.

Answer

THANK YOU so much for getting back to me with answers.

To be honest, i will preferr you to be seen by your gastroenterologist or at least give him a call to make early appointment or even phone consultation as it will not be a good idea to increase dose of hydrocortisone without knowing underlying cause of fatigue.

When you take hydrocortisone 80 mg, it is associated with several severe side effects . most important of those are osteoporosis,developing cushing syndrome, and it decreases your immunity and that way there is increases chance of repeat infection.
It is difficult to guess at the underlying cause without physical evaluation and lab tests.
So please do not increase dose of steroids you are already on unless you talk to your prescribing physician.

thank you

457 days and 22 hours ago.

Reply

I have osteoporosis. I have pins in my hip and have broken many bones. That is not a concern. I always have a high white count due to fistulas. Do you think I am on a high dose of steroids?

Accepted Answer

yes. It is high enough dose if given for prolonged period, can cause problems like osteoporosis. But your physician who prescribed it may not have any other choice to give you relief from ulcerative colitis.
But one thing i will certainly say that do not increase the dose further untill you consult your gastroenterologist. Please.

Best wishes for your health

Expert: Dr.Mian
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 8/21/2008

MD

Diplomat American Board of Family Medicine

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