For ophthalmia, blepharitis, stye and any other eye inflammation, an Eyebright tea might be beneficial when used as a cold eye compress. To make Eyebright tea, take 1 teaspoon of carefully washed Eyebright herb and boil it in 1 1/2 cup of water for 10 minutes.
taking prednisone over long periods of time can cause a different set of side effects these long term side effects can include weight gain see prednisone and weight gain bulging eyes fluid retention osteoporosis acne
I did find on a list of side effects that prednisone can cause joint and bone pain. From experience as a nurse of 25 yrs, I have had to re-educate doctors about common side effects to certain drugs. They prescribe them.