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