Concerns Regarding My Prednisone Prescription
I’m a 29-year-old female. Recently, my physician recommended Prednisone to treat my Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL). The instructions provided indicate that I should take 3 tablets daily for two weeks, each pill containing 20 mg. After the initial period, the regimen reduces to 2 tablets taken for one day, followed by 1 tablet daily for two days, culminating in a final dose of a half tablet each day for the last two days. In total, I will be consuming 47 pills. I’m starting to wonder if this duration of treatment is excessive. It's been a week since I began this medication, and I am beginning to experience some challenging side effects, including noticeable mood fluctuations, facial swelling, and severe insomnia. These symptoms are quite overwhelming, and I feel a bit out of control. My primary concern is the potential for any lasting impacts from this medication.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 4:10:31 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your Prednisone prescription, especially given the side effects you're experiencing. Here's a breakdown of your situation:
Main Points:
- Prednisone is often used to treat conditions like Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, but it can cause side effects.
- Common side effects include mood changes, swelling, and sleep disturbances.
- While you're experiencing side effects, many can be managed, and it's important to communicate with your healthcare provider about your concerns.
Explanation: Prednisone is a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. It can be very effective for conditions like SSHL, but it does have potential side effects, particularly when taken at higher doses or for longer periods. The side effects you're experiencing—mood fluctuations, facial swelling, and insomnia—are not uncommon, but they can be distressing.
While most side effects settle down after the medication is discontinued, it’s important to closely monitor how you feel, especially since you've noted significant changes in mood and sleep.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your side effects, noting when they occur and their intensity. This information will be helpful when discussing your concerns with your doctor.
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Focus on Your Well-being: To address insomnia, consider practicing good sleep hygiene: maintain a consistent sleep schedule, reduce caffeine intake, and create a calming bedtime routine.
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Stay Hydrated and Manage Nutrition: Drinking plenty of water and consuming balanced meals can help manage some side effects, such as swelling. Try to limit salty foods which can exacerbate fluid retention.
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Reach Out to Your Doctor: Even though it can be difficult, it’s essential to communicate your concerns about side effects and the impact on your daily life. They may adjust your dosage or provide additional interventions to help manage the issues you're facing.
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Consider Support Options: If you find mood changes particularly difficult, seeking support from friends or family can be beneficial. Sometimes talking through your feelings helps alleviate discomfort.
If you notice worsening symptoms or if new symptoms develop, prioritize contacting your healthcare provider sooner rather than later. Remember, your well-being is essential, and it's okay to advocate for yourself in managing your treatment.
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