I did not know this was a real thing. I always thought withdrawal was something associated with addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, or opioids. Anything that adds or removes chemicals from your body consistently can be “addictive” over time.
Predisone withdrawal, or steroid withdrawal syndrome happens when you stop taking a medication or taper off too quickly after prolonged use. I started taking prednisone right after my kidney transplant in January of 2021. For most of the period, I needed to take 5 mg of prednisone daily. I knew there were many nasty side effects with prednisone, but I have not seen the entire list.
Common physical symptoms:
- Severe fatigue and weakness: Feeling unusually exhausted and lacking strength.
- Aches and pains: Muscle aches and joint pain are common as inflammation returns.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
- Headaches: May range from mild to severe.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: Often caused by a drop in blood pressure.
- Weight loss: May be experienced due to loss of appetite and other issues.
- Fever: Some people may experience a low-grade fever.
Mental health symptoms:
- Mood changes: Can include irritability, mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
- Other psychological effects: In more severe cases, delirium or confusion can occur.
I believe in combination with the radiation treatments, most of my suffering in the past three weeks can be attributed to withdrawal from prednisone after four and a half years of daily use. I have experienced major reaction listed under the physical symptoms section. At least I am no longer taking any prednisone related to the kidney transplant nor the delayed tolerance study.
Life with chronic diseases 