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Date: 06.06.2011
From: Gillian

Subject: GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis)

Following my appointment with the Consultant last Thursday I was very shocked to be told I had GCA following an episode of general fatigue and extreme head pain the week prevously. Its a long story but briefly I refused admission for a temporal artery biopsi and very reluctantly agreed to take 40mg steroids daily (80mg daily was prescribed). I was warned of sudden permanent blindness and stroke. I was only allowed home having undertaken a promise to go straight to A&E. I am still getting my head around the diagnosis (no pun intended) and have an appointment with my GP this Wednesday to discuss the latest events. I must admit I have been beside myself with worry and I am also very frightened but I feel I did right by bidding for time out just to take in all the information I had been informed of. Apparently the inflammatory arthritis can cause the cells inside arteries to enlarge and overgrow, eventually they block, resulting into blood not being carried to optic nerve resulting in instant blindness. Hence the very high dose steroids to reduce the inflammation within the arteries. It would be interesting to hear if any of you good people had experience of this dreadful side kick to inflammatory arthritis. Thank you. Gillian
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Date: 06.06.2011
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis)

Hi Gillian my Mum has had a Temporal Artery biopsy and she said it wasn't that bad - she was okay though and shown no Arteritis. I hope you will come to terms with the diagnosis soon and I'm sure the Steroids will help you. Good Luck ;0)
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Date: 06.06.2011
From: cookie

Subject: Re: GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis)

Had quite a few patients in for these over the years they have always gone ok patients are usualy treated with high dose steroids xx
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