My name is LonieLoneri

[LonieLoner]

I had PMR in 2016 and got over that in 18months In August 2019 I was diagnosed with GCA and put on 40mg Prednisolone now down to 20mg. I notice that my eyesight has deteriorated considerably in the last six weeks. I had hoped that as I lowered the tablets they might improve not get worse. Also I had some blood tests a month ago and was told this morning that I am borderline diabetic. I am shocked about that as well. I am not overweight but will have to watch my diet and also give those chocolates away that I was given at Christmas!! By the way I am a new member. I think being able to write about problems is going to be a great help.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi,

How have your eyes deteriorated? Pred does affect them unfortunately, so some days okay, others not...but it could also be the start of a steroid induced cataract. Depending on current restrictions, can you arrange an appointment with optician/. optometrist? Obviously if things really deteriorate then you need to visit A&E - not something you may want to do, but may be necessary.

I would also say that Pred has caused pre- diabetes, so as you say just watch diet....doesn’t mean it will necessarily turn into full blown diabetes.

[SnazzyD]

Pred at these doses made my eyes unable to focus efficiently, especially when changing depth of focus. My specs were not doing the trick. My optician said it was par for the course and it would keep changing with dose. He was right there. He did check my pressures every three months to make sure they weren’t creeping up. I hasten to add that the problem was purely a focus problem like eye strain and no other anomalies.

I controlled my blood sugar with a very low carbohydrate diet, not just cutting out sugar. Meant I could eat lots too 🙂

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I can only add to the comments made by DL and Snazzy - what SORT of vision problems? There are several things it could be.

[SheffieldJane]

Hello LonieLoner, and welcome to the forum!Sorry that Pred has taken its toll on you. Your pattern of disease is similar to mine except it was 4 years + before my PMR seemed to go into remission to be replaced by GCA/LVV, unless it hadn’t really gone and at 3 mgs Pred it was able to develop into GCA/LVV. It was at 40 mgs that I developed Steroid induced diabetes, blurry vision and high blood pressure. As I lowered my Pred dose and paid attention to my diet ( gluten, carbs and sugar) my blood sugars completely normalised. My high blood pressure came down with the aid of blood pressure drugs. I have the start of cataracts, dry eyes, Blepharitis and eye strain at times which explains my blurry vision. I mostly notice when I try to read small print. I intend to seek the cataract operation when it’s possible and the right time. I use dry eye drops, Blepharitis wipes and antibiotic lotion for the stubborn stye.

[196_]

I was diagnosed with steroid induced diabetes 3 months after starting treatment for GCA. Also getting used to regularly getting up at 4.00am!

[Sho-Sho]

I had exactly the same scenario as you in the early months after my GCA diagnosis, steroids started at 60mg, after 3 months blurry eyes, bloods showed early onset pre-diabetes despite being underweight. My consultant did not want me to go on a diet but just be careful about sugars, after a few months my bloods were fine and the eyes settled down but even now nearly 5 years later & on 6mg my eyes can get tired & blurry.just make sure you get regular eye checks.