I have also been on prednisone for three years for Polymyalgia Rheumatica. The side effects are horrible even though it is a wonder drug for PMR. I recently tapered off completely at the advice of my Mayo surgeon in preparation for an upcoming lumbar fusion surgery. I had my first surgery yesterday for nerve decompression.
Of course the PMR has flared again. I need strong bones for the second surgery and they don’t want me on prednisone as it weakens bones as a side effect. I am curious as to what side effects you have experienced in ten years from prednisone. My worst ones are weight gain, gastritis and severe sweating episodes. I have also been told it usually disappears in 1-4 years. I feel for you in suffering with it for 10. People just don’t understand how sick it makes one feel. Sadly, I believe the medical professionals really don’t understand the disease nor truly know how to help us.