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How Long Does Epidural Remain In Bloodstream?

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Posted on Mon, 27 Oct 2014
Question: I had a epidural C7/T1 injection on Monday. Lots of water retention now, on Friday (gained 3 pounds in 4 days). Question: how long does the steroid remain in my bloodstream? When can I expect to go back to normal weight: days/months? Thanks!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (14 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
I need further details.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend.
Welcome To HCM. I am Dr Anshul Varshney.
I understand your concern.
Estimated duration of action would depend on what dose and which steroid you have been given.
If you don't know the name and dosage tell me for what basic problem you have been given the steroid.
Also mention if there is any history of diabetes , cardiac or thyroid issues.
I'll help you with your all answers once I have these details.
Stay Healthy.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Anshul Varshney (7 hours later)
I had an "interlaminar cervical injection" using "Depo Medrol" using a fluoroscope to guide the needle. I do not know how much drug was given in the injection at C7/T1.

Symptoms: tingling numbness upper left shoulder, left neck, left ear: increasing regularity over last 6 months; last week they were coming every 5 minutes. Also some burning pain in neck when moving head.
The MRI showed bone spurs at C4, C5, C6.

Only cardiac issue is one episode of atrial fibrillation almost 4 years ago. (Too much caffeine, ginseng, etc.)
No history of diabetes or thyroid issues.
Current drugs taking: lisinopril 20mg daily. Nasacort AQ spray for allergies every other day in the nose. Current weight: 235 lbs. (I have been on a diet the last 5 months and have lost 30 lbs.)

Thank you Dr. Varshney!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (14 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Detail Follows.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Friend.
In general effect of depomedrol last for around 2 weeks.
In your case it was given to reduce the swelling around the nerve and provide anti inflammatory action.
This effect is transient and would start weaning off within 15 days.
You might require further injections depending on the severity of your Disease.
If you have any further query please ask me.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Anshul Varshney

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 3071 Questions

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How Long Does Epidural Remain In Bloodstream?

Brief Answer: I need further details. Detailed Answer: Dear Friend. Welcome To HCM. I am Dr Anshul Varshney. I understand your concern. Estimated duration of action would depend on what dose and which steroid you have been given. If you don't know the name and dosage tell me for what basic problem you have been given the steroid. Also mention if there is any history of diabetes , cardiac or thyroid issues. I'll help you with your all answers once I have these details. Stay Healthy.