Giant cell arteritis & bull; hello healthy

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Definition

What is giant cell arteritis?

Giant cell arteritis is a condition in which the lining of the arteries becomes inflamed and swollen. This condition causes the arteries to become narrowed, thereby reducing the supply of blood to tissues throughout the organs.

Although arteries in any part of the body can be at risk for inflammation, it is the arteries in both parts of the temples that are most affected. This is why giant cell arteritis is also often referred to as temporal arteritis.

If not treated and treated properly, this condition can lead to stroke and blindness.

How common is giant cell arteritis?

Giant cell arteritis is a condition that generally occurs in women over the age of 50. This disease is more common in women than men.

This disease can be overcome by reducing risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of giant cell arteritis?

The most common symptom of giant cell arteritis is severe dizziness, especially in the two temples. Some of the other typical signs and symptoms of giant cell arteritis are:

• Signs of flu include fever, fatigue, dizziness, stiff joints, sore muscles
• Blurred vision or double vision (one object looks like there are two)
• The scalp is sensitive and prone to injury
• Pain in the jaw or tongue when chewing or speaking
• Losing weight drastically for no reason

There may be some signs or symptoms not listed above. If you are concerned about the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you have some serious symptoms, such as:

• Sudden permanent loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Symptoms do not improve after one week
• Previously never experienced severe headache associated with fever or chewing pain

If your doctor diagnoses you with giant cell arteritis, you need to immediately and take regular medication to avoid permanent blindness.

Cause

What causes giant cell arteritis?

The cause of this disease is unknown. However, experts believe that giant cell arteritis is a condition that occurs when the body's immune system doesn't function properly to fight infections in the body.

At that time, the infection will attack the lining of the blood vessels which makes the arteries inflamed and swollen causing arteritis blood cells. This condition can be passed on to the next generation.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for giant cell arteritis?

Some of the factors that can increase your risk of developing giant cell arteritis are:

• Age. This disease occurs most frequently in the elderly, on average over 70 years, and rarely occurs in people under 50 years.
• Gender. Women are at twice the risk of developing giant cell arthritis than men.
• Polymyalgia rheumatism. About 15 percent of people with polymyalgia rheumatism also develop giant cell arteritis.

Having no risk factors does not mean you cannot get this disease. These risk factors are for reference only. You should ask your doctor for more information.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for giant cell arteritis?

The doctor will prescribe a corticosteroid medication (prednisone) to relieve symptoms and prevent vision loss. The symptoms of giant cell arteritis usually subside after a few days of taking the drug. Even so, the risk of recurrence can still occur. The doctor will adjust the dose if the symptoms do not improve.

To avoid the side effects of corticosteroids, your doctor may give you a prescription for vitamin D and calcium supplements and periodic bone examinations.

What are the usual tests for giant cell arteritis?

The doctor will diagnose based on symptoms and a comprehensive physical examination. In addition, there are several tests such as:

• A special blood test (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) to evaluate inflammation
• Temporary artery biopsy
• Chest X-ray
• MRI
• Doppler ultrasound
• Positron emission tomography (PET)

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat giant cell arteritis?

Some of the lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help you treat giant cell arteritis are:

• Take medication regularly. Do not change or stop treatment without the doctor's permission.
• Routine consultation with a doctor. Routinely check your condition to the doctor. Tell your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects from taking a carticosteroid medication.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, eat less fat and high sugar.
• Get plenty of exercise. Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes a day. No need for strenuous exercise, do simple physical activities that you like, such as cycling or jogging.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.