Steroid injections, again

Hello everyone, I posted a few years ago about steroid injections ( they can bring on cataracts)

I have trigger thumb that now can’t bend at all. Had an appointment with my GP today. I never ever mind waiting over my time, but GP was non apologetic, she just appeared a “bit off”I explained my problem to her, she asked me if i had injured myself. I explained I hadn’t, but I had trigger thumb a few yrs ago on other hand.

Was prescribed anti inflammatory gel for the time being, meanwhile gp is sending referral to hospital for steroid injection. I explained to gp that I would prefer to use the gel rather than steroid injection...... I felt like a school child, teacher knows best.

[helixhelix]

I'm not sure what you expected the doctor to say? A steroid injection is generally accepted to be the most long lasting/permanent solution without surgical intervention which has its own risks. And doctors are supposed to recommend the most effective solution......

[marybruen]

Have you got proof that the injections course catterachs

[Hidden in reply to marybruen]

The surgeon who carried out cataract operation on me informed me that it was a steroid induced cataract.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I have steroid induced cataracts in both eyes 👀 due to steroid injections and long term oral steroids, I guess it’s just the luck of the draw as to how it affects each individual. 🤗 X

[Hidden]

It is so difficult to know just what to do in these cases. I have had lots of steroid injections over the years and am on 5mg per day long term. I now have a small cataract in each of my eyes. However, the gel does nothing for me, but to be honest, it has got to the stage where the last few injections have not helped me at all either. I hope you get some relief from your problem.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Holly, I’ve been using the gel but it’s doing absolutely nothing for me. I’m really not fussed on steroid injection. I was having my eyes tested recently due to medication I’m on, plus they are querying Glaucoma, I’ve been informed start of cataract in my other eye now. I should think myself lucky really, as their are people a lot worse off than me.

[nomoreheels]

I've had a steroid injection for trigger finger which has worked extremely well considering my Rheumy thought it may not work as it had been left for so long & was virtually stuck to my palm (GP said it wasn't trigger finger). I'm pleased as before my Rheumy injected it she did say she considered I may still need an op to release it. I may be wrong but I don't think a topical NSAID will be too helpful, it wouldn't have been for me anyhow.

[Cheylann]

Sorry don't really get your point. Why didn't you want the steroid injection? Why did you feel like a school teacher. Have I missed something?

[Hidden in reply to Cheylann]

Pass

[wanttobepainfree]

I know the feeling. I have seen 3 RA specialists already since i have been diagnosed in '98. And i have gotten the "I don't believe you look". I don't care about the look anymore cuz I am going to tell them exactly how I am feeling. No other person knows your body like the way you do, the patient. No one else is feeling like the way you are and no one else is going to talk for you either so the doc might as well understand that! You are you, SOMEONE, and if the doc doesn't listen the first time, just keep letting the doc know how you are really feeling....be persistent! Good luck with everything and hope you do find relief soon!!! Take care!