High Dose Steroids

[Heather1987]

Hi everyone, just wondering if I should be concerned about my pulse rate. Im taking a 5 day course of high dose steroids for my relapse. I get the dose in the morning and notice my pulse rate slowly rises during the day . At rest it is 95 and I can hear my heart pounding while I am trying to sleep which makes me more anxious. My chest feels sore too. I keep generally very fit and healthy apart from RRMS and my heart rate is only this high normally when I am recovering from exercise. My BP is good thankfully. Just wondering if I should speak to my doctor tomorrow about this. Any advice greatly appreciated. Heather

[Heather1987]

Hi Sidesteps, glad you are feeling better and everything is returning to normal, hopefully a good normal that is . I am trying to curb my appetite now, I am just so hungry after sleeping for 2 days. Fresh fruit and veg. is the answer,  I know! I do hope things continue to improve for you . Best wishes heather  

[Sidesteps]

I am just finished with my 5 day IVSM as well, they checked my liver and glucose levels every day. I am feel better and better now that everything is returning to normal.

[Heather1987]

Hi all, to top it off now my white blood count and neurtiphils are very high too, doctor says not to worry as more than likely the steroids. Hopefully everything will go back to normal soon. I always forget what the steroids do to upset your body as mainly remember how they have helped get rid of my relapse. I dont remember getting blood taken before so probably why I was non the wiser! Im wondering if they have done this because Ive been on Copaxone now too at the same time?? Thanks everyone, Heather

[ku111]

I do think that some dr's do a blood glucose test when on steroids as a standard.  Others don't.  I do a lot of blood sugars at hospital when patient on steroids.  They expect it to be high but not too high.  Just procautionary and standard.  I do not have diabetis but got solumedrol injection and orals for pneumonia this week.  I had a glucose drawn and have to return in 2 weeks to have another draw.  I have seen it cause problems in people with diabetis and it has needed treatment.  I hope you feel better very soon!  May all the sick bugs be vanished!  Ug!  Got everyone else better and it hit me the worst!  Maybe I should get some garlic!!LOL

[anon07072023]

Were you having problems with your blood sugar, is that why they tested your glucose?  I don't think they ever sent me for blood work after my IV solumedrol.  I was just wondering if this is typical, but my neuros never do it?  I'm glad that you were able to sleep better.  I had a steroid shot about a week ago and my heart's been racing - it's annoying and kind of scary at the same time.  I wish it would calm down.

Good luck with your recovery.
-Kelly

[Heather1987]

Just a quick update. Finished steroids yesterday and slept better last night. Blood glucose quite high but told this is normal and they will check in 2 weeks to see if it comes down.  Not back to work full time as taking it slow. Im sure in 2 weeks I will feel back to my normal self. Just so glad I decided to take the steroids. Hope everyone is well --Heather  

[Heather1987]

Thanks Shell & Kelly
I will speak to my doctor today as Im due to have blood taken this morning. I try to rest as much as I can when I feel this but you know how your mind can react to the slightest change in things. Best wishes Heather

[anon07072023]

I think it's pretty normal. When I've been on it my pulse is usually about 115 bpm the entire time. In fact, I usually end up losing about 4 lbs.  But if you're worried, then talking to your neuro about it, wouldn't be a bad idea.

Good luck,
Kelly

[sllowe]

Hi Heather,

Your instincts are spot on. Yes, please give the doctor a call as soon as you can. May require a change in dose.
-shell