Side affect from predisolone

[Carolred]

I'm new here diagnosed GCA in July 16, gradually getting tapered of from 40mg. Now 15. Had a relapse trying to get down from 30 but seems to have stabilised. Worst side affect dry eyes. When will that get better?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

To get from 40mg to 15mg since July is VERY good going and I'm not in the least surprised you had a flare! Is your doctor reducing you 5mg at a time or allowing you to go at a slower and more comfortable and safer rate?

The dry eyes may not be the pred - it may be the GCA and it may last as long as the GCA, possibly even longer. Mine is definitely due to the autoimmune part of PMR, it happened long before pred.

[Carolred in reply to PMRpro]

When I get down to 10mg she says it will be reduced by 1mg the rheumatologist advised this. Thanks for eye advice.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

My dry eye started before GCA raised its ugly head, not sure whether affected by other tablets taken, or age!

My late hubby had same problem, and although he was on a plethora of tablets, no Pred nor GCA or PMR.

They're are plenty of products on the market which help, although I don't think anything completely solves the problem.

[Carolred in reply to DorsetLady]

Looks like it will be here for a while, the doc has given me eye drops so i'll just have to persevere. Thanks.

[HeronNS]

My pred dose is really low now, and Eileen's post reminds me that I've had dry eyes forever it seems. I've been using preservative-free artificial tears and they seem to help but so often I feel like there is sand, or at least an eyelash, in my eyes. I don't think I can blame pred for this, unfortunately, or it would be improving, wouldn't it?

[SheffieldJane]

I have had dry eyes since way before my PMR diagnosis, I have eye drops as part of my repeat prescription. At its worst I liked the spray that you apply to closed eyes, very soothing. Boots have it if you are from the UK. Oddly since Prednisalone this symptom is better along with psoriasis and other minor health niggles. Small mercies.

[Gosingen]

I have GCA but luckily don't suffer with dry eyes. I'm sure your consultant or optician will be able to sort something out for you. I do have a very, very dry nose though, which is most irritating. As for your question, when will it get better - how long is a piece of string. No one knows. Hope this doesn't sound too pessimistic. You're doing well having got down to 15mg, good luck with the reducing and your symptoms.