Prednisone, a powerful corticosteroid, affects your body’s fluid balance. Fluid retention causes swelling, particularly in the lower extremities, leading to leg heaviness and fatigue.
Prednisone also impacts muscle protein breakdown. This catabolic effect weakens muscles, contributing directly to leg weakness and tiredness.
The medication can increase blood sugar levels, causing energy fluctuations and contributing to fatigue. This energy drain often manifests as leg weakness.
Prednisone’s effects on bone density can indirectly contribute to leg fatigue. Weakened bones can result in discomfort and reduced mobility, leading to tiredness in the legs.
Finally, Prednisone can disrupt sleep patterns. Sleep deprivation significantly worsens fatigue in all parts of the body, including the legs.
