Asthma, Steroids and Eye Disease

Those with Asthma Can Breath a Little Easier

For decades we have known about the side effects with long term steroid use and their effects on the eyes.  Historically, studies were conducted using systemic steroids, pills or injections, and found an association between long-term steroid use and cataracts and an increase in eye pressure.  An increase in eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma.  The relationship between steroids and these side effects has also been a concern for inhaled steroids, such as those used for control of asthma.

A recent study by Soren Pederson, MD, associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Southern Denmark in Kolding, examined patients taking inhaled steroids for asthma over a 16 year period and found no increase in the incidence of cataracts or high eye pressure associates with the long-term use of inhaled steroids.  This study suggests that the side effects known to exist with the systemic steroids are not a concern with asthma inhalers.

“We have drawn the conclusion from these data that after 16 years of taking inhaled budesonide there is no adverse effect on cataracts, ocular pressure or on vision,” Pederson said.

Courtesy of the doctors at Ernst Eye Health Associates; Optometrists and opticians serving the people of Warrenton, Hermann, and all the people of Warren Montgomery and Gasconade counties of Missouri for over 20 years.  Visit our website at http://www.ernsteyehealth.com/.  Connect with us on twitter @ernsteyehealth and “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ernsteyehealth.  Call (636)456-2020 for office information and appointment scheduling.