Considering the Use of Old Prednisone
I came across some leftover Prednisone from a hives flare-up I experienced back in April (20mg and 10mg pills). Now, I'm contemplating whether to use it for a pinched nerve, but I'm unsure if this is a wise choice. For some time, I've been grappling with an issue related to a pinched nerve. Unfortunately, I haven't consulted a doctor yet because I lack both insurance and the funds for an MRI. The discomfort seems to stem from my neck or possibly the wrist/elbow region. While there has been some improvement, I still experience an irritating sensation. Initially, it presented as a subtle pulling and tingling feeling, primarily affecting my middle and ring fingers, particularly when I bent or extended my arm quickly—like when gesturing to point at something. Over time, especially after prolonged periods of crocheting, the discomfort escalated to include all four fingers (excluding my thumb). I ceased all activities that could exacerbate the issue and sought treatment from my chiropractor, and I've noticed significant improvement in the past month. Despite this, I still encounter occasional discomfort throughout the day. There’s no discernible pain aside from the intermittent pulling and tingling, which has now mainly returned to affecting just my middle and index fingers. I've read that Prednisone might be beneficial in reducing inflammation and swelling in the affected area. Should I proceed with taking it? Additional Information: I am a 27-year-old female weighing 139 lbs. My daily medications include vitamin D, L-Lysine supplements, and birth control (Vienva, a combination of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol).
Answers (1)
8/28/2025, 4:34:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
Using leftover Prednisone without medical supervision could be risky, especially for treating conditions like a pinched nerve. Here’s a structured response to your situation:
Main Points
- Prednisone can reduce inflammation but should not be used casually without a doctor’s guidance.
- Your symptoms related to the pinched nerve are improving with conservative care.
- Monitoring your symptoms and considering other self-care strategies are essential.
Explanation
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. However, it has potential side effects and should ideally be prescribed by a healthcare professional who can weigh its uses against your medical history and current condition. Since you're already experiencing improvement and managing your condition through adjustments and chiropractic care, it might be better to continue with that journey rather than self-medicate.
Next Steps
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Do Not Take Prednisone: Avoid using the leftover Prednisone without consulting a healthcare professional, as improper use can lead to unwanted side effects, especially if not medically necessary.
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Continue Current Care: Keep up with the activities that have led to improvement, such as avoiding strain during crochet and following your chiropractor’s guidance.
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Symptom Tracking: Maintain a symptom diary to note when the discomfort arises. This can help identify triggers and patterns that may be beneficial for future medical consultations.
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Self-Care Measures:
- Apply heat or cold: Use a warm compress or an ice pack on the affected area to alleviate symptoms.
- Gentle Stretching: Incorporate neck and wrist stretches to improve flexibility and reduce tension.
- Rest: Ensure you're resting the areas involved to avoid further irritation.
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Research Low-Cost Healthcare Options: Look into community clinics or telehealth services that may provide advice or care without requiring insurance.
If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention when possible. The combination of proactive self-care and professional guidance will best address your health needs.
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