Giant Cell Arteritis: What You Need to Know
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a condition where certain arteries, usually in your head and neck, get inflamed. This inflammation can cause headaches, jaw pain, and even vision problems if left untreated. It mostly affects people over 50, and catching it early is crucial to avoid serious issues like permanent vision loss.
The exact cause of GCA isn’t fully understood, but it involves your immune system attacking your artery walls, causing swelling and narrowing. Common signs include sudden, severe headaches on one side of the head, scalp tenderness, and sometimes flu-like symptoms such as fever and weight loss.
How Is Giant Cell Arteritis Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects GCA, they’ll likely order blood tests to check inflammation levels and may perform an ultrasound of the arteries. A definitive diagnosis often requires a biopsy, where a small artery segment from your scalp is examined under a microscope for signs of inflammation.
Treatment and Management Options
The usual treatment for GCA is high-dose corticosteroids to quickly reduce inflammation and prevent complications. Treatment often starts before a biopsy is done if there’s strong suspicion. Patients usually feel better within days, but they might need to stay on steroids for a year or more with gradual dose reduction. Your doctor may also suggest bone-protecting medications since steroids can weaken bones over time.
Living with GCA means regular check-ups to monitor symptoms and side effects of treatment. If you experience new headaches or vision changes during treatment, you should contact your doctor immediately. While steroids are effective, managing side effects like high blood pressure or blood sugar is equally important.
Remember, giant cell arteritis is serious but manageable. Early symptoms should never be ignored—getting prompt medical help can protect your vision and overall health. Stay informed and work closely with your healthcare provider to keep this condition under control.
