RA and prednisone

[musicmom3331]

I have rheumatoid arthritis that is pretty much in remission. I told my Dr., today, about my upcoming trip to Disney World and he prescribed prednisone to bring with me just in case I have a flare-up. He said it could make all the difference between a great trip and a miserable one. Has anyone had any experience with taking prednisone while in the World?

 

[smphbear]

Yes. Recently diagnosed with RA and trying to get some control. When we went to the world at the start of March, I was just starting the RA meds in addition to anti-inflammatory meds.

My dr. had me take prednisone the week before and the week of vacation. He told me that he recommends that I do this any time I travel or do something that is draining. Do you know how you react to prednisone? I can take on the world when I am on it. The one side effect I get is flushing of the skin and like a hot flash. That was worth it to be able to do a week in the world. I could feel the difference of going with and without RA, but the prednisone made it tolerable.

 

[Piper]

I have been given the Medrol dose pack for vacations. It is the one where you start out with a large number and decrease every day until you have finished the pills. It has worked fine for me.

 

[sharadoc]

YES! Last year I had walking pneumonia the week before leaving on vacation, so Dr. gave me prednisone for my lungs. By the time I got to Disney World, I felt like I had NO arthritis at all. I walked everywhere, even around all of World Showcase. And I had rented ECVs the prior two trips and had paid for one from Apple Scooter for that trip, too.

My Dr. also is fine with my taking prednisone for travel and I already have my prescription for my June trip.

My DD couldn't understand why I was crying while walking up Main Street. I told her because I felt 20 years younger and I was WALKING up Main Street. It was a miracle.

My side effect was shorter night's sleep, with some heart racing every so often, but nothing I couldn't handle. I knew what was causing it so no anxiety about it.

 

[cynzilla]

My Hubby is on Predizone for his RA (along with Enbrel).....he says it does really help. Just be aware of occasional mood swings! Also, get a high (or higher) sunscreen because you can become more sensitive while on Predizone!

 

[minkydog]

My dr. had me take prednisone the week before and the week of vacation. He told me that he recommends that I do this any time I travel or do something that is draining. Do you know how you react to prednisone? I can take on the world when I am on it. The one side effect I get is flushing of the skin and like a hot flash. That was worth it to be able to do a week in the world. I could feel the difference of going with and without RA, but the prednisone made it tolerable.

Yes, all of the above. My DH doesn't have RA, but he has a serious autoimmune disorder which causes heart & lung problems. He takes 20mg Prednisone on a daily basis, but when we travel he always increases to 30 or higher. Travel is very hard on DH and he's gotten sick enough to go to the ER twice while on trips. Not fun. He does get the flushing and of course, sleep disruption due to the steriod. Once we get back home he weans back down to his regular dosage.