Managing Prednisolone 5mg for Post-Surgery ENT Issues: Dosage Guidance

PREDNISOLONE 5 mg

Hello, Director Chi; I am experiencing hoarseness, tinnitus, dizziness, and occasional ear pain after heart surgery.
After an endoscopic examination by the physician, I was informed that I have nasal polyps, poor vocal cord movement, otitis media, and damage to the auditory nerve, with hearing levels at 34 and 36.
I was prescribed PREDNISOLONE 5 mg, a compound medication, Urokinase 50 mg, Bromelain enteric-coated tablets 20 mg, and a gastric medication to be taken after meals.
After starting the medication, I feel discomfort in my stomach (I have a history of gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Should I continue to take PREDNISOLONE 5 mg as prescribed, three times a day? Thank you for your assistance!

Yun Yun, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/16

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the general treatment for the aforementioned condition is to take the medication approximately three times a day.
If you experience any discomfort after taking the medication, it is advisable to discontinue it and promptly return to your original physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/04/16

More Info

Managing Prednisolone 5mg for post-surgery ENT issues requires careful consideration of both the medication's benefits and potential side effects, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that is commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response in various conditions, including post-surgical complications.

In your case, the prescribed dosage of Prednisolone at 5mg taken three times a day is within the typical range for managing inflammation and other symptoms related to your ENT issues. However, it is essential to monitor how your body responds to the medication, particularly given your history of gastric discomfort. Corticosteroids can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach upset, which may exacerbate pre-existing conditions like gastritis or GERD.

If you are experiencing significant gastric discomfort after starting Prednisolone, it is crucial to communicate this with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting the dosage or frequency of the medication, or they might recommend additional medications to help protect your stomach lining, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers, which can reduce stomach acid production.

It's also important to note that while short-term use of Prednisolone is generally safe, long-term use can lead to more severe side effects, including weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and potential adrenal suppression. Therefore, if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, your doctor may need to reassess your treatment plan.

In terms of managing your overall treatment, it is advisable to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the use of Prednisolone and any other medications prescribed. If you have concerns about the dosage or experience adverse effects, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.

In summary, while the prescribed dosage of Prednisolone appears appropriate for your post-surgery ENT issues, careful monitoring of your symptoms and any side effects is essential. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your experiences with the medication, especially regarding any gastrointestinal discomfort, to ensure the best possible outcome for your recovery.

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