Hi Pam Actual test numbers? You have to look at two parts of adrenal testing to determine your AI state. The initial level (before injection) will be a partial indicator to secondary AI. The cortisol rise you get is "testing" for primary AI. I am surprised the cortisone med had to be stopped for the stomach problem. AI treatment generally is about meeting actual requirements or the equivalent of what you'd naturally produce. That more or less means you would have no side effects from excessive use. You may of course be taking more for an autoimmune problem, but the 20mg/day doesn't seem excessive in that way. That's pretty close to full replacement dosage for most people, but it depends on weight/BMI etc. There is also a recovery period where your system "starts to work again" after being swamped by replacement cortisol. ie you feel rotten for a while during that period. That's why you gradually ramp down the dosage over a few months. You NEVER stop 20mg/day of HC dosing cold. (You haven't explained how long you have been feeling rotten for) HC is of course also an anti-inflammatory. Were the other meds you were taking gluco-corticoid based? Even asthma drugs like Budesonide have to be allowed for in the gluco-corticoid budget. Excess use can in fact cause secondary AI. The answer of course is to go back to the doc and explain devastating loss of QOL. If they argue you are within ref-ranges, quote to them studies/data that often show AI states within "normal". ie go on the symptoms and use tests to determine probability. Bob (Australia) Please remember that accurate answers often need detailed source information. Please considering putting your DX status, drug dosage and other information into your "About Me" or Signature Line. That also includes what country you are in because measurement systems and diagnostic methods vary around the world. |
