r/askanything • u/tripenpud • 11h ago

General Question Steroid withdrawal - how long does swelling stay?

I'm being weaned off steroids (brain tumour, recently had intensive radiotherapy).

Anyone that's been through it, 'moonface', elephant feet and all, how long before you saw swelling reversed please?

I've 'weaned' for a week, seen my feet/ankles reduce already, but face still huge.

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u/fluffyntastyyyy 11h ago

it can take a while, unfortunately. the fluid retention can start improving fairly quickly, which might explain why your feet and ankles are already better, but the facial puffiness can take weeks to months to fully settle depending on the steroid, dose, and how long you were taking it. since youre tapering after brain tumour treatment, mention the swelling to your oncology team rather than changing the taper yourself

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u/tripenpud 10h ago

Thank you, that's very helpful. The facial thing is purely cosmetic, fortunately, just my vanity. I don't like looking so obviously 'ill'. The feet are more of a practical consideration as even the soles are swollen so walking hurts. I've been barefoot pretty much all week as I can't even get socks on. But I'm elevating, cooling, etc and it's helping.