COPD & Emphysema Support Group
COPD is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction or limitation. Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue, destruction of structures supporting the alveoli and of capillaries feeding the alveoli. Both have symptoms that include shortness of breath, among other respiratory troubles. If you are a COPD or Emphysema sufferer, join...
My airways have been so closed down and full of thick mucus gunk that I could hardly walk 5 feet without gasping. I went to the doctor and told them they had to get all that gunk out. They told me I had to take prednisone. Guess who won? I'm suppose to take a short burst of 40 mg per day for 3-10 days, whenever I feel better. It's been 48 hours and I already feel better (not GREAT, better). I'm also on antibodics just in case. I actually walked up and down the stairs several times. The last 2 weeks I moved downstairs and have been sleeping on the couch because it was to hard to manage the stairs.
My question is, just what does prednisone do to our lungs to make us feel so much better. I know sassyme had an article out there on prednisone but that I can't find it. My doctor said it wouldn't be necessary to taper down on that short of a burst. I also want to know if I will get a Moon Face, I remember my mom's moon face and I don't want it. I can assure you, I have a very healthy respect for the dangers of prednisone, but by gosh when you need it, you need it. Warmly, Shirley
My question is, just what does prednisone do to our lungs to make us feel so much better. I know sassyme had an article out there on prednisone but that I can't find it. My doctor said it wouldn't be necessary to taper down on that short of a burst. I also want to know if I will get a Moon Face, I remember my mom's moon face and I don't want it. I can assure you, I have a very healthy respect for the dangers of prednisone, but by gosh when you need it, you need it. Warmly, Shirley
I agree with Sassy in that it gives you a false sense of energy, however, it does open up your airways and when you breathe better you feel better.
Everything else re: Mucinex, etc., is exactly what I do.
The only thing I might add is to not be surprised if you feel tired for a day or two after you stop your dose. Your body has to readjust.
Hope you feel lots better soon!
Joni
They make me very nervous. I need to take them, but then I can't sleep, but if you really need them I know they make you breathe better.
I hope you get to feeling better.
Carol
I thought you'all were talking about a new kind of powder spray or something. I'm always shopping for something new!! lol
I hope you and Sassyme get to felling better very soon. Bless each of you, becky
Mine was a steroid in tablet form. It made me feel great, able to walk much easier felt really happy and positive about life. I did get the moon face too whilst on it but that goes when course is finished.
The same ingredient from this steroid which may make one feel great can make another feel really low.
Unfortunately the side affects of prescribing this too often and taking it long term (because it is a steroid) can and does cause osteo arthritis (bone thinning).
It's a shame that something that can make one feel so much better can have such horrible long term affects.
Just taking it in short term courses is the usual prescribed way.
Here is a web search link for any one wishing to read more about the benefits and side affects of prednisone. (You may find different web search lists come up when you use different words to search)
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft%3Aen-us%3AIE-Address&rlz=1I7SKPB&q=Benefits+and+side+affects+of+Prednisone&btnG=Search
Good wishes