Swollen Ankle
My ankle has been swollen now since Thursday night. I have had this problem with my knee before and I'm pretty sure its due to chronic osteoarthritis, but I've also been taking Prednisone "short dose" for the past 8 days. I'm supposed to take it for 4 more, I am wondering if could be that? Of course I am gonna call the doctor in 4hrs when they open, but sometimes they are too busy to be too concerned? Just wanted some ideas before I call so that I can ask questions. Thanx
Answer:Things you can ask yourself: Any redness? Do you have a temp? Have you injured it? Have a pulse above and below the injury? Swelling can mean a lot of things, from the benign such as a sprain, to the serious, such as a blood clot. Prednisone can cause the sudden death of a bone or joint (usually the hip or jaw) and lowers your resistance to fight infection, so I would have the ankle evaluated. In the meantime, Rest it, Ice it, Wrap it, and Elevated it. Hope you feel better soon. If you ever need a quick check of symptoms you are having, go to WebMD. Click on "Check Your Symptoms". It can be a huge help. Don't let it scare you, just be realistic. Best of luck!
Very important to stay on the Prednisone. I don't know if it's causing the swelling (it usually is more like in the face or, if it's the ankle, it's usually both). My guess is your arthritis is acting up. Do you have pain? Is the ankle red, or hot to touch? You're right to call the Dr. right away. But I would stay on the Prednisone for now.