Steroids and Cataracts

[Shashi]

Just wanted to make everyone aware of something that the doctors may not tell you - steroids can cause cataracts. I had one round of steroids about two years ago that my ophthalmologist said is what has caused the type of cataracts I have in both eyes. I just had surgery today to remove the one in my right eye, and will probably need surgery in December for the left eye. (I'm typing this with one eye bandaged, and not being able to see too clearly out of my "good" eye. It's a good thing I know how to touch type!)

I know steroids can help with many MS symptoms, but I just wanted everyone to be aware that cataracts can be a side effect from even just one dose. Believe me, if I had known about it, I would never have had that dose, because it didn't really help anyway. It definitely wasn't worth the price my eyes had to pay for it.

[sloth]

Awesome info! Heal fast!
(wish I didnt have to practically live on the stuff).

[sloth]

PS: prednisone / solmedrol etc.. also eats your bones if you take high doses.

[lynnepynne]

Sloth, do you mean osteoporosis?

Does everyone regularly taking steroids go for bone density testing?

I've heard it's important but havnt heard too many folks talking about it here...

Get well soon Lisa! I am sure you're rockin' the injured pirate look,

[techie]

Thanks for the heads up!
techie

[GIGI69]

Steroid Side Effects

There are a lot of side effects from steroids (cataracts, bone desnsity loss, etc). It is important to weigh the benefits against the possible effects. Unfortuanately, when we are suffering it is easy to make a rash decision to get relief. However, the long term ramifications really need to be discussed with a doctor. Thanks for the reminder.