Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes Irregular Heart Beat After Having Prednisone?
irregular heart beat. I m currently on day 7 of prednisone. 40mg, 40, 40, 30, 30, 30, 20 today. I have had an irregular heartbeat for the last few hours. Do I need to worry about it now or can I wait to call my dr tomorrow since they re closed? I m otherwise healthy. This is my first time on Prednisone. Another side effect is not being able to sleep, so I also wonder if the irregular heartbeat is simply caused by me being overtired. I m 38 year old female, 5 1 , 103 lbs.
posted on
Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sun, 5 Mar 2023
Answered on
Tue, 4 Apr 2023
Last reviewed on
Hi,
Irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, have been reported as a rare side effect of prednisone use. However, it is important to note that there could be other underlying causes of irregular heartbeats. If you are experiencing irregular heartbeats for the first time, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention.
You may need to visit the emergency room or call emergency services if the irregular heartbeats are accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath. If you are experiencing a mild or intermittent irregular heartbeat, you can wait to call your doctor in the morning, but it is still important to inform them of your symptoms.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, have been reported as a rare side effect of prednisone use. However, it is important to note that there could be other underlying causes of irregular heartbeats. If you are experiencing irregular heartbeats for the first time, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention.
You may need to visit the emergency room or call emergency services if the irregular heartbeats are accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath. If you are experiencing a mild or intermittent irregular heartbeat, you can wait to call your doctor in the morning, but it is still important to inform them of your symptoms.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Cardiac arrhythmia
Loading Online Doctors....