Prolonged steroids use associated with cataract risk
Asthma patients who are on inhaled steroids maintenance may run a higher risk of developing cataracts. Inhaled steroids are mostly used to reduce the inflammation of bronchioles and the airways in general. It is used to prevent asthma attacks.
Previous researches have linked oral and injectable steroids to cataract formation. In this particular study however, clinical experts examined the relationship between inhaled steroids and cataracts.
A cataract is a clouding in the normal lens of the eye. The extent and pattern of cloudiness may vary depending on the severity. Symptoms may also vary from a diminished color vibrancy, blurry vision, double vision, poor night vision, sensitivity to bright lights to pupils looking milky or yellowish.
Although older people have the greatest risk for cataracts, there are varying causes for cataract development. It may be caused by free radicals, radiation, smoking, alcohol and medications such as steroids.
In a study, researchers found that among cataract patients, 11.5% were prescribed inhaled steroids. Almost 70% of patients on a high dose of 1,600 mcg per day have cataracts while those in the lowest daily dose have minimal or no cataract risks at all. Furthermore, researchers also observed a direct relationship between cataract risk and prolonged inhaled steroids use.
From Web MD:
Older adults who use inhaled steroids to manage their asthma may be slightly more likely to develop cataracts than others may, a new study suggests.
Researchers say previous research has shown that steroids that are taken as pills or delivered intravenously (by vein) increase the risk of cataracts, or clouding of the clear lens that covers the eye. But this is the first study to examine whether inhaled steroids also carry a risk of cataracts.
