Inhaled Steroids May Cause Eye Problems

Filed in archive Allergy Medications , Asthma , Hay Fever on August 1, 2006

Are you using inhalers to control your asthma and allergy symptoms? According to studies, orally inhaled steroids may increase the risks for contracting eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.

Dr. Harry Quigley , director of the glaucoma service at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University, said this and other studies suggest that doctors who are prescribing nasal steroids for people with allergies or sinusitis should ask whether patients or their close family members have glaucoma before prescribing the drug.

On one side, severe cases of asthma and allergies may be life threatening, so the risks outweigh the benefits. On the other side, you don't want to be relieved of some symtoms now, only to deal with some other disease later. Consult your doctor whether inhaled steroids are appropriate for you.