Hello, I was wondering if anyone has any comments concerning the long-term use of corticosteroids on the voice (I would particularly appreciate comments from doctors on the list!). After nearly a year of passing out and having heart palpitations on nearly a daily basis, I have been recently diagnosed with orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, a disorder that causes the heart rate to increase and blood pressure to drop dramatically when the patient changes position. I have tried treating my condition with increased fluids and salt, but my health is worsening and I'm finding my enjoyment of singing is decreasing because I'm constantly afraid of falling down whenever I stand up for any period of time. Additionally, because my pressure drops whenever I lie down, I frequently go entire nights without sleeping more than a few minutes.
My specialist has recommended that I take Florinef, which is a corticosteroid used to regulate blood pressure and retain fluids and electrolytes. As I've said, I've tried very hard to regulate this thing by myself without medication, but singing is just becoming too difficult (particularly during the hot summer months) and I'm starting to think that taking this medication might be worthwhile. My dilemma, however, is that I'm only 18-years-old, and I'm worried that taking steroids long term (like, daily for the rest of my life!) could adversely affect my voice. The dosage is 0.1, or 0.05 mg per day (depending on individual tolerance). Can steroids, particularly ones like these that are DESIGNED to cause water retention, cause edema? I know many singers take Nasonex and Flonase for allergies, which have about the same dosage of corticosteroids, so perhaps I am worrying needlessly. I thought I would check in here before my next appointment with the cardiologist. I'm sure he is going to suggest that I take this medication, and I need to know whether I should be hesitant about trying it. Warm regards to all,
Kate
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