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California Medical Insurance Plans That Cover Actemra
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jul 7, 2023 | Replies (9)Comment receiving replies
I used autologous serum eye drops (ASEDs) for about 2 years. They are supposed to have ingredients that artificial tears just can’t replicate and promote healthy growth and healing of the cornea. I was somewhat grossed out by putting blood serum in my eye.
My ophthalmologist lectured me about the consequences it I didn't do those drops. She said the drops were absolutely essential for my condition.
I had a neurotrophic corneal defect as a result of damage to my trigeminal nerve.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3964170/#:~:text=Neurotrophic%20keratitis%20(NK)%20is%20a%20rare%20degenerative%20corneal%20disease%20caused,ulceration%2C%20melting%2C%20and%20perforation.&text=The%20hallmark%20of%20NK%20is%20a%20decrease%20or%20absence%20of%20corneal%20sensation.
I was taking prednisone at the time which made the problem even worse because prednisone doesn't promote healing. My ophthalmologist was saying I could have a corneal meltdown which would cause an eye perforation. I don't know how I managed to escape that predicament. My eye healed.
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I’m so glad your eye healed. I was also grossed out at the thought of using a blood product. My condition was diagnosed as epithelial basement membrane dystrophy disease. Unfortunately not until after cataract surgery which placed the new lens over cysts and irregular eye surface from the disease so I will never have optimal corrected vision with glasses. My vision is worse than before surgery.
Without serum tears, treatment consisted of manual debridement of epithelial irregularities and cysts. A very painful procedure which would heal with difficulty now that I’m on prednisone.
My fatigue and sleeping whenever I’m not engaged in an activity is probably a combination of PMR, long term use of prednisone, severe discomfort from my eyes and/or depression. My body has created a perfect storm. I went from an active, youthful 85 to a near basket case. I’m optimistic that I will regain some quality of life back before morbidities from PMR or prednisone overtake me. This forum has been a source of information and hope.