Side Effects Of Prednisone

Breathing Issues

Prednisone is used to treat many types of respiratory disorders, and patients who experience breathing issues while taking this medication could be having an allergic reaction. If shortness of breath occurs, emergency medical care should be obtained immediately. Breathing issues associated with prednisone are more common in female patients over sixty years old, and patients with high blood pressure are at an increased risk of experiencing breathing difficulties while on prednisone as well. Breathing issues typically begin during the first month of prednisone use, and taking this medication together with tiotropium bromide could also increase the likelihood of this side effect. To determine the cause of breathing difficulties, doctors will first check for signs of an allergic reaction, including facial swelling and skin rashes. If an allergic reaction is ruled out, a physical examination and imaging studies may be needed to detect underlying medical conditions. Pulmonary function tests may be performed, and the patient may need to take additional medications to reduce breathing trouble while on prednisone. Activity modification could ease this side effect, and patients will need to be regularly monitored by their healthcare providers.