Hi I'am a 47 yr ole male , an have been taking prednisone for over 4yrs at 5 to 10 mg tablets,

I have RA an feel I am having side effects of this med.  I am a US Veteran so honestly my care is minual at best.  However i did ask my doctor whom stated that yes this is a Horrible med to be on for this long a time however i am alleget to asprins an this the only med i can take...  i have all the classic symtoms fast weight gain, increse body fat, increase sweating, shortin of breath, I had bilateral knee replacement in 06, sexual side effects, tearing of eyes, leg contracures, an several others.  I want to get off this medication, an am trying myself to do so.. can u please tell me how, to safely do so, an if if infamations return servre again with RA can i use other meds... thanks for your help... Iam trying to get off this med by myself.. or quit suddenly may have bad affects..(?)