>In a message dated 98-07-07 01:47:05 EDT, MichelleVM(AT)aol.com writes:
>
><< If it goes away and then return, it
> may be MS. I of course am asking for steroid treatment again because I
am
> afraid if I just "give it time", I may have perminent damage. Can anyone
>help
> me out or make some recommendations for preventative treatment or
alternative
> options for treatment.
> *Continued: My local Dr. allowed me another 3 days of Solumedrol -
infusion
> therapy -I.V. with a prednisone tapered perscription for the next three
>weeks,
> however the Dr. I saw from Mayo disagrees and feels it is not a good idea
> (side effects or masking or symptoms) Please tell me your opinions,
should I
> wait it out and not take the oral prescription or should I take the
steroids
> and hope it helps? What do I have to lose? What side effects might I
>expect.
> I have been off the initial steroid treatment for 3 weeks. Thanks,
Michelle
>
> >>
> Hi Michelle,
> I agree with the Mayo doctor. The side effects of Solumedrol and
prednisone
>taken over a prolonged period of time,may cause osteoporosis,avascular
>necrosis of the hip bones(this can lead to needing an artificial
>hip),emotional impairments,cataracts and more.
> I would suggest asking your Doc about your benefiting from an interferon
>medication,preferably Avonex.
> Phil
>
>