Giant cell arteritis is an inflammatory condition that affects the large blood vessels of the neck, scalp and arms. The inflammation results to the constriction or blockage of the blood vessels that disrupts the flow of blood.
The root cause of the condition is unknown, but it is considered as an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the blood vessels, including the temporal arteries. Hereditary and environmental factors might play a role. Since the condition is uncommon among individuals below 50 years old, it can be linked to the aging process.
What are the signs?
The initial signs of giant cell arteritis strikingly resemble the flu such as fever, fatigue and appetite loss. The symptoms are typically linked to the inflamed arteries of the head such as:
- Headache, which is often intense
- Double vision
- Tenderness of the temples or scalp
- Jaw pain while talking or eating
- Brief or sustained loss of vision
- Dizziness or issues with balance and coordination
- Continuous sore throat or difficulty swallowing
- Occasional chest pain
Management of giant cell arteritis
Immediate care with elevated doses of corticosteroids lessens the minor risk of blindness. The symptoms quickly settle with treatment, but corticosteroids might be required for months up to years to control the inflammation.
Oftentimes, giant cell arteritis is managed using other immune-suppressing medications such as methotrexate.