Is this a prednisone side effect?

I have UC (pancolitis), just started tapering off prednisone a week ago (was taking 40mg daily, now down to 35mg). I took the 40mg dose for about 100 days and had very few side effects aside from increased appetite. In the last 30 days, I have gained about 10 lbs. I understand that this is perfectly normal when on pred.

However, about a week ago, right when I started tapering, my stomach started looking like I swallowed a huge basketball. It feels as if I drank a couple gallons of water and can't get rid of it. It is totally disproportionate with the rest of my body.

Is this a normal side effect of pred -- or maybe it's the tapering? Nothing hurts, I feel the best I have in months, bathroom trips are down to just a couple per day and are normal.

I don't usually bloat while tapering-I get the belly bloat now while on the full dose (I am surprised my oldest hasn't asked me if I am having that baby brother she has been asking for, lol). But bloating definitely can be from both UC and from pred.

If it doesn't resolve as you get off of the pred, or if it gets worse or pain or anything starts accompanying it, I would get checked out. Are you male or female?

Since it's a symptom you've not had until now, I think you should still let the doctor know. That's a LOT of retention.

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