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← Return to PMR diagnosis and anemia
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HI @sgp, My anemia was diagnosed shortly before I was diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis. I had PMR before. My doctor friend called it "anemia of chronic inflammation." Apparently chronic inflammation alters red blood cell production and changes iron handling (source - Perplexity.ai). More explanation is available at Perplexity.ai
I remember feeling incredibly fatigued, but Once I started treatment with Prednisone, my energy returned.
Replies to "HI @sgp, My anemia was diagnosed shortly before I was diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis. I..."
@tsc Teri, I had mild anemia too when I was diagnosed with PMR and GCA. My iron levels have recovered with treatment with prednisone and Actemra.
I have read, and you can confirm it through google, that the level of anemia you have when you are diagnosed with GCA can predict your risk of bad events from the GCA (stroke, vision loss, etc) and also your likelihood of a relapse after completing treatment.
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@tsc I have GCA, diagnosed 8+ years ago. Actemra keeps me “out of trouble,” but does keep me with a form of anemia. I also have microscopic colitis and COPD. At 81 I’m thankful that I am still able to do many things, but I have had to learn to pace myself and adjust what I actually can do. That is often the greatest struggle, to admit where I am in life. Btw last year I broke my femur and after resisting for five years, am finishing up 12 months of evenity. I’ve recovered from breast cancer. I work hard to stay optimistic and know that my husband is extremely important in that regard. Positivity, even through pain, is some of the best medicine.