I Have PMR. Its Over 2 Years. I Took Prednisone

I have PMR. its over 2 years. I took prednisone to confirm diagnose and my symptoms disappeared immediately. I moved away from the prednisone due to fear of long term effects. My flair-ups are crippling and occur regularly. im committed to a life of misery praying it will end. My question- Is there documented long term effects of not taking prednisone? is there anything suggested that can possibly end this misery? thx