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GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis) and PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica)
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Feb 12 11:08am | Replies (262)Comment receiving replies
I was diagnosed recently with GCA. My Rheumatologist started me on 60 mg of Prednisone tapering off to 20. I have had some side effect issues with Prednisone. She ordered the injection Actemra and just started my 1st injection today. Will wait and see how it responds. I've been having headaches and some vision changes but the vision could be due to cataracts. Has anyone had the biopsy performed for GCA. My doctor said it's not always accurate
Replies to "I was diagnosed recently with GCA. My Rheumatologist started me on 60 mg of Prednisone tapering..."
I'm glad you are starting Actemra and it takes a few weeks, maybe even more, before you will notice a difference. In these past three years as a GCAer I haven't heard a negative from any user I've talked with.
I presented with sight loss in one eye, and they did do a temporal artery biopsy. There was no doubt about the diagnosis and the narrowing of the arteries. Since I was given general anesthesia, it was painless, and the healing was quick with no issues. It is a tiny incision. I've heard of some places 'scanning the artery,' but I'm not sure how that works. It seems the veracity of the outcome is an issue of debate with each side...positive their way is best.
The minor surgery was done by a vascular surgeon because I entered the ER with vision damage. I never went to a rheumatologist prior to that time, but for nine months, doctors (mine, ER, and Urgent Care) kept telling me I had the flu.
I wish you the best and am grateful you have a rheumatologist treating you. There is hope indeed and it sounds like you are on the right track.💞
Yes I have had the biopsy
You are correct .. mine said
GCA healed !! Whatever that means
I was on 40 mg of prednisone for 3 days prior .. so I think that’s what they meant ! But they said I have it ! I am currently on 30 mg tapering 5mg every 3 weeks. So far, so good !🙏
I too had side effects of prednisone and was in the hospital two times before we got it a little regulated.
Good luck to you
Please let us know how you do with a acterma. That could be my route as well !
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Headaches and eye problems are part of GCA. Please find a vascular surgeon and discuss it with them. What is your SED rate?? Even on 40 mg of Prednisone both sides of my head were positive for GCA. Do not wait as your vision could be impacted.