Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
June 28
 · 
Be the first to react
MyLupusTeam

That sounds incredibly painful and exhausting — dealing with multiple fractures while also managing lupus is a lot to carry. Those falls and fractures are very likely connected to long-term prednisone use, which is a well-known risk.

Long-term prednisone use can cause osteoporosis, which means bones become weaker and more Show Full Answer

That sounds incredibly painful and exhausting — dealing with multiple fractures while also managing lupus is a lot to carry. Those falls and fractures are very likely connected to long-term prednisone use, which is a well-known risk.

Long-term prednisone use can cause osteoporosis, which means bones become weaker and more prone to breaking — even from falls that might not seem that serious. Given 20+ years on prednisone, it's really important to speak with a doctor in Pennsylvania as soon as possible about the following:

- Bone density scan — to assess how much bone loss has occurred
- Calcium and Vitamin D supplements — these can help support bone strength
- Reducing salt intake — long-term prednisone can cause fluid retention which adds other complications
- Blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring — prednisone affects both over time
- Reviewing your prednisone dose — a doctor may explore whether the dose can be safely adjusted

Never stop or reduce prednisone on your own — tapering must always be done slowly and under a doctor's supervision to avoid serious withdrawal effects and lupus flares.

June 28

Related Questions

View All
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Kansas City, MO

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Austin, TX