I take ibuprofen and steroids for arthritis. Everytime I try to stop my steroids, my joints all swell up and it hurts especially in the morning. My doctor now has me taking steroids indefinitely what should I be concerned about?

Ibuprofen has been shown to increase the likelihood of stomach ulcers because it thins the protective mucous lining of your stomach.  You and your doctor should be aware of how much ibuprofen you are taking to minimize any chance of stomach ulcers.  In addition, steroids, such as prednisone, decrease the normal absorption of calcium and increase the excretion of calcium.  Therefore, most women on steroids should also be supplementing their diet with calcium and vitamin D.