Key Takeaways
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory condition that affects the large blood vessels in the head, neck, and upper body.
- Common symptoms include new, persistent headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing, and vision problems like double vision or vision loss.
- If left untreated, GCA can lead to serious complications, including permanent blindness and stroke, making early diagnosis crucial.
- Treatment typically involves high-dose corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and sometimes other medications like infusion treatments are used to manage the condition long-term.
- If you're experiencing symptoms of GCA, the expert team at Bay Area Rheumatology offers specialized diagnosis and care to help you manage the condition and protect your health; schedule an appointment today.
Understanding Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)
Giant cell arteritis, often called temporal arteritis, is a form of vasculitis—a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the blood vessels. With GCA, the inflammation typically targets the arteries in your scalp, neck, and arms, especially the temporal arteries located on the sides of your head. This inflammation causes the artery walls to swell, which can narrow the vessel and restrict blood flow.
GCA almost exclusively affects people over the age of 50, and women are about twice as likely as men to develop the condition. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own blood vessels. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent potentially severe complications.
Common Symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis
The symptoms of GCA can develop gradually over several weeks or appear suddenly. Because they can mimic other conditions, it's important to pay close attention to new or unusual health issues.
Head and Scalp Symptoms
- Persistent Headaches: This is the most common symptom, often described as a new, severe, and throbbing headache, typically centered over the temples.
- Scalp Tenderness: Your scalp, particularly over the temporal arteries, may feel sore or tender to the touch. Simple actions like combing your hair or resting your head on a pillow can be painful.
Jaw and Facial Pain
- Jaw Claudication: You might experience pain or fatigue in your jaw muscles while chewing. The pain usually subsides when you rest your jaw.
- Tongue or Throat Pain: In some cases, pain can extend to the tongue or throat, making it difficult to swallow.
Vision Problems
Vision-related symptoms are a medical emergency, as they can signal a high risk of permanent vision loss.
- Sudden Vision Loss: This may occur in one or both eyes and is often painless.
- Double Vision (Diplopia): Seeing two images of a single object.
- Blurred Vision: A temporary or fluctuating blurring of your sight.
Systemic Symptoms
In addition to localized pain, GCA can cause more general, flu-like symptoms.
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
- General feeling of being unwell
Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward getting the help you need. If you're concerned about these signs, finding a 'rheumatologist near me' who specializes in vasculitis is a critical step.
The Risks of Untreated Giant Cell Arteritis
Ignoring the symptoms of GCA can have devastating consequences. When blood flow is restricted, the tissues supplied by the affected arteries do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage.
The most feared complication of giant cell arteritis is permanent vision loss. This occurs when the inflammation affects the arteries that supply blood to the eyes. Once vision is lost, it usually cannot be restored, which is why immediate medical attention for any visual symptoms is vital.
Other serious complications include:
- Stroke: If the inflammation affects the arteries leading to the brain, it can cause a stroke.
- Aortic Aneurysm: GCA can weaken the wall of the aorta, the body's largest artery. This can lead to a bulge (aneurysm) that may rupture, causing life-threatening internal bleeding. This complication can occur years after the initial diagnosis.
How Bay Area Rheumatology Diagnoses and Treats GCA
A swift and accurate diagnosis is key to preventing complications. If your doctor suspects GCA, they will perform a physical exam and may order several tests.
Diagnostic Process
- Blood Tests: These tests look for markers of inflammation in the body, such as an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (sed rate) and C-reactive protein (CRP) level.
- Temporal Artery Biopsy: This is the most definitive way to diagnose GCA. A small sample of the temporal artery is removed and examined under a microscope for signs of inflammation and giant cells.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds or other imaging scans may be used to visualize the inflammation in the blood vessels.
GCA Treatment Options
Treatment for giant cell arteritis focuses on reducing inflammation quickly to prevent tissue damage.
Corticosteroids
The primary treatment is high-dose corticosteroids, usually prednisone. This medication is highly effective at controlling inflammation and often provides symptom relief within a few days. Treatment typically starts immediately, even before a biopsy confirms the diagnosis, to protect against vision loss. You will likely stay on corticosteroids for one to two years or more, with the dose gradually tapered over time.
Steroid-Sparing Medications
Because long-term steroid use can have side effects, your doctor may prescribe other medications to help reduce your reliance on them. These can include immunosuppressants like methotrexate or specific biologic drugs.
Infusion Treatment
For some patients, an infusion treatment may be recommended. Tocilizumab is an FDA-approved medication administered through an IV infusion that targets a specific inflammatory pathway involved in GCA. This treatment can help patients achieve and maintain remission, often allowing for a significant reduction in their steroid dosage. If you are searching for 'infusion treatment near me,' a specialized rheumatology clinic can provide this advanced care.
Find Expert GCA Care at Bay Area Rheumatology
Living with GCA requires ongoing management and a strong partnership with your healthcare provider. At Bay Area Rheumatology, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care, from accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans that may include advanced infusion therapies. We work with you to manage your symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and improve your quality of life.
Don't wait to address your symptoms. Schedule an appointment with the experienced team at Bay Area Rheumatology for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized GCA treatment plan by calling our office or booking online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of doctor treats giant cell arteritis?
A rheumatologist is the specialist who typically diagnoses and treats giant cell arteritis. These doctors focus on autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones, including vasculitis. Finding a 'rheumatoid doctor near me' is a good first step.
Can giant cell arteritis go away on its own?
No, GCA does not go away on its own and requires medical treatment. Without treatment, the inflammation will persist and can lead to severe complications like blindness or stroke.
How long does treatment for GCA last?
Treatment for GCA is long-term. Most patients will need to take corticosteroids for at least one to two years, and sometimes longer. The dose is slowly reduced over time as your symptoms and inflammation markers improve. Other medications, like infusion treatments, may also be part of a long-term management strategy.
Is giant cell arteritis hereditary?
While GCA does not follow a direct hereditary pattern, having a close relative with the condition may slightly increase your risk. Genetic factors are thought to play a role, but the exact connection is still being researched.
