Concerns After Prednisone Reduction and Upcoming Procedure
I'm a 39-year-old female, 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, and I don’t smoke. I underwent a right heart catheterization this past Tuesday, and it was done without any sedation due to my allergy to dye, for which I have been taking prednisone. My tapering schedule over the last month involved gradually reducing my dosage from 40 mg to 10 mg, and I stopped taking it entirely just a week ago. Now, as I write this on Saturday, I’m experiencing a persistent sense of dizziness, particularly when I lie down, along with ongoing fatigue and weakness that has continued each day. There's a distinct feeling of imbalance that I can’t shake. I’m also on 50 mg of trazodone to assist with sleep, but I know this medication can influence cortisol levels. Could what I am experiencing be a result of prednisone withdrawal? I intend to reach out to my primary care provider or the doctor who prescribed the medication on Monday if these symptoms persist, but I’m looking for insight on whether this situation warrants concern.
Answers (1)
9/7/2025, 4:40:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about the symptoms you’re experiencing after reducing your prednisone dosage, especially following your recent procedure. Dizziness, fatigue, and weakness can indeed happen due to tapering off prednisone; however, they can also stem from other factors related to your recent heart catheterization and the use of trazodone.
Explanation: Prednisone is a powerful corticosteroid, and stopping it suddenly after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Common withdrawal effects include fatigue, weakness, and, in some cases, dizziness. The timing of your dizziness, particularly when lying down, could also suggest issues related to blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) or balance, which may not solely be from prednisone withdrawal.
Moreover, trazodone can cause sedation and influence your balance as well. Combined with the potential aftereffects of your procedure, this may contribute to the feelings of imbalance and dizziness you're experiencing.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when your dizziness occurs and any other symptoms, noting how they change with activity or position (e.g., lying down vs. standing).
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids daily, as dehydration can worsen dizziness.
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Avoid Sudden Movements: When getting up or changing positions, do so slowly to help minimize feelings of dizziness.
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Rest: Ensure you’re getting enough rest, especially since you’ve been feeling fatigued. Listen to your body and prioritize sleep.
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Consult Your Doctor: Since you plan to reach out to your healthcare provider on Monday, that is an excellent first step. If your symptoms worsen or become more concerning (e.g., severe dizziness, fainting, or any new symptoms), consider seeking medical attention sooner.
If you feel particularly uneasy about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional sooner than planned. Your health and comfort are essential, so advocating for yourself is always a good decision.
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