What Causes Swelling In Face After Taking Cortisone In Knee And Shoulder?

Posted on Fri, 22 May 2015

Question: About two weeks ago I had a shot of cortisone for my knee and a shot in my shoulder for bursitus to help relieve pain befor taking physical theraphy. I begin taking the physcial theraphy about a week later. The following week I took two doses 540 mg each of black cohosh, by the next day my face was swollen, I

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. Get your healthcalled the ER and was told to take benedryl (I took 2 that night) went to my doctor the next morning and received a shot of predisone. The swelling did not go down over the weekend , so I went back to doctor on Monday because I had developed swelling at the base of my neck. I was sent to the ER where blood wook was take and everything came back negative. I still have he swelling in my face and base of my neck. No pain but face is uncomfortable because it is tight in my jar area. I am on a predisone pack and have taken 3 day of 4 tablets at docs orders. Do you think I had a reaction from the black cohosh ?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
probably it is an allergic reaction.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

I read carefully your query and I am sorry you are going through this.

Considering the fact that you have been examined and the tests are negative ,means that other possible causes for swelling in face have been excluded.
The fact that the swelling begin after taking Black Cohosh,suggest that it might be an allergic reaction.
In this case the swelling will respond the corticosteroids prescribed and will improve gradually.

If the swelling doesn't seem to improve ,you need to consult your doctor.A CT scan or MRI might be necessary to evaluate the lymphatic system and to see if there is blockage anywhere.
For now try not to worry and give it some time.

Hope it helps.
Let me know if you have any question or doubts to clarify.I would be happy to answer.

Kind regards,
Dr.Rovena Murati

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rovena (13 hours later)

I have notice now that I have developed swelling under the area around my armpit and the facial swelling is not getting any better. Should I still wait a while longer or go back to the doctor.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
detailed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again.

I apologize for the delay in answering you.

Considering the fact that you are taking a corticosteroid for treatment of allergic reaction ,it is not expected for the swelling to develop further.I would suggest to give it few more days and if the swelling develop further and doesn't improve consult your doctor again for further evaluation.

Take care.
Dr.Rovena

Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar