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Adjusting to life with temporal arteritis
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jan 13, 2024 | Replies (217)Comment receiving replies
Hi @whaler33 I hope you get an answer from your biopsy. It's a great relief to get a diagnosis. What symptoms did you experience and for how long? If it is GCA, we are lucky that symptoms are managed so well for most people with prednisone. I began a high dosage of 40 mg in May and now just started a taper to 3mg. My symptoms have disappeared with the exception of a little twinge here and there. I just try to respect my body by eating well, exercising, getting proper sleep (on a high dosage of prednisone that will be challenging and NEVER take melatonin). Also, try to avoid high stressors or pushing yourself too hard. My mother-in-law had GCA, diagnosed in her 80s, and lived to be nearly 100. I wish you the best and keep us posted.
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I was diagnosed with GCA in July of 2019. Had all the symptoms and was waiting for an appointment to see a doctor, but went to the ER when I lost sight in my left eye for about 15 to 20 minutes. The ER doctor diagnosed it immediately and sent me for a biopsy which confirmed it. I was put on 80 mg. of prednisone which looking back was probably too high because I got avascular necrosis and had to have a shoulder replacement. I've been trying to taper my prednisone which has been very difficult. I got down to 10 and was doing great. Playing golf again, exercising and feeling wonderful, but several times trying to get to 5 has been very difficult. Terrible neck, shoulder and back pain. Taking my dog for a walk around the block is hard. I come home exhausted. My advice is try and get lots of sleep and try to stay positive.