← Return to Giant cell arteritis:I’m afraid and would appreciate any advice

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Profile picture for marieameehan @marieameehan

Hi last wek Zi had temporsl biopsy and now I learned I have GCA!!!
I sm filled wth sadness and anxiety as I read about the awful treatments available !!!!
What do I do going forward??
Please help
Thank you
Marie

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Replies to "Hi last wek Zi had temporsl biopsy and now I learned I have GCA!!! I sm..."

I know, from first hand experience, what it is like getting a diagnosis of GCA. Please try to relax and start taking Prednisone. As time goes on, if you are able, your rheumatologist might off you Actemra and other meds. I suggest that you try them and you might be fortunate that they will work. The treatments are definitely better than losing your eyesight, etc. My best to you.

@marieameehan, my mother-in-law was diagnosed with GCA in her late 80s and lived to be nearly 100. I've had it twice so far. If you have a good physician and follow instructions, you'll be fine. For most people, it eventually burns out.