Considering Discontinuation of Prednisone and HCTZ After ER Visit
Greetings! I'm a 25-year-old woman who visited the emergency room yesterday due to an alarming episode of tinnitus in my left ear, which was soon accompanied by temporary hearing loss. Fortunately, my hearing returned after about one to two hours. The physician who attended to me diagnosed me with Meniere's disease. I received a dose of 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and 80 mg of prednisone while in the ER. Following this, I was prescribed a course of 12.5 mg of HCTZ to take for a month and a reduced dosage of 50 mg of prednisone for four days. However, I am feeling hesitant about starting these medications. I'm quite apprehensive about the potential side effects associated with prednisone, and I would prefer to consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist regarding my diagnosis prior to initiating any new treatment plans. Is it advisable for me to forgo taking both of these medications tomorrow? I appreciate your guidance!
Answers (1)
9/6/2025, 10:40:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel hesitant about starting new medications, especially after experiencing concerning symptoms like tinnitus and temporary hearing loss. It's important to make well-informed decisions regarding your treatment for Meniere's disease, which involves managing symptoms and preventing episodes.
Key Points:
- Your diagnosis of Meniere's disease suggests that treatment may help alleviate symptoms and prevent future episodes.
- The prescribed medications, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and prednisone, have specific roles in managing Meniere's disease.
- Consulting a specialist prior to starting any treatment can help address your concerns and provide more personalized care.
Explanation:
Meniere's disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss, and those medications are often used to help manage these symptoms:
- Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ): This is a diuretic that can help reduce fluid buildup in your inner ear, which may alleviate pressure and related symptoms.
- Prednisone: This is a corticosteroid that can reduce inflammation. While it can have side effects, it can also be effective in managing flare-ups of Meniere's disease.
Initially, you should weigh the urgency of your symptoms against your desire to consult a specialist. Given that you've just experienced a serious episode, starting the medications might provide you with some relief and improve your condition in the short term.
Next Steps:
-
Consider Starting the Medications: If you're feeling substantial discomfort or recurrent symptoms, it may be beneficial to begin the HCTZ and the tapered prednisone as prescribed. These medications are typically well tolerated when taken as directed.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Record any changes in your symptoms while taking the medications. This information will be helpful for your follow-up with the ENT specialist.
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Plan a Consultation: After starting the medications, schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat specialist as soon as possible. They can provide further insights into your condition and any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
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Monitor for Side Effects: If you do start the medications, pay attention to any unusual side effects, especially with prednisone. Common side effects range from mood swings to increased appetite, and it's important to report these to your healthcare provider.
It's crucial to make decisions that prioritize your well-being. If you're still unsure or uncomfortable starting the medications, do consider contacting your prescribing physician to discuss your concerns. Your health is a priority, and it's always valid to seek clarification about any treatment plan.
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