An inflammation of the lining of medium to large arteries, particularly those in the head and neck region, is caused by giant cell arteritis (GCA). The causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of giant cell arteritis are discussed in this blog post, as it can lead to serious complications such as vision loss, stroke, or aneurysm.
The exact cause of giant cell arteritis is unknown, but it is thought to involve an abnormal immune response that attacks the artery walls. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing giant cell arteritis include:
Age: The condition usually affects people over 50 years old, and the risk increases with age.
Sex: Women are more likely to develop giant cell arteritis than men.
Ethnicity: People of Northern European descent are more prone to giant cell arteritis than other ethnic groups.
Genetics: Having a family history of giant cell arteritis or a related condition called polymyalgia rheumatica may increase the susceptibility to giant cell arteritis.
Infections: Some viral or bacterial infections may trigger or worsen the inflammation of the arteries.
The symptoms of giant cell arteritis vary depending on the location and severity of the inflammation. The most common symptom is a persistent, severe headache that affects one or both temples. Other symptoms may include:
Scalp tenderness or pain when touching the hair or combing the hair
Jaw pain or difficulty chewing or opening the mouth wide
Vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision, or sudden vision loss in one eye
Fever, fatigue, weight loss, or night sweats
Neck, shoulder, or hip pain or stiffness
The symptoms of giant cell arteritis are similar to those of other conditions. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical examination, ask about the medical history and symptoms, and order some tests.
It is possible to determine the level of inflammation in the body by checking the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and the C-reactive protein (CRP) level. A high ESR or CRP level indicates inflammation, but it does not necessarily indicate giant cell arteritis.
In order to confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical examination, ask about the patient's medical historyy (PET) scan to look for signs of inflammation or narrowing of the arteries.
A doctor may use a Doppler ultrasound, a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), or a positron emission tomography (PET) scan to checky shows inflammation and abnormal cells called giant cells, it confirms the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis.
There are a number of serious side effects associated with corticosteroids, including osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, cataracts, and mood swings. To prevent or treat these side effects, the doctor will monitor the patient closely and prescribe other medicationsirst, and then gradually taper it down over several months or years. The duration of the treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the response to the medication.
There are a number of serious side effects associated with corticosteroids, including osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, cataracts, and mood swings. To prevent or treat these side effects, the doctor will monitor the patient closely and prescribe other medications. Some of these medications include:
Calcium and vitamin D supplements: These can help prevent bone loss and fractures caused by corticosteroids.
Bisphosphonates: These are drugs that can slow down the bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These are painkillers that can relieve the pain and stiffness associated with giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica. However, they can also increase the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers, so they should be used with caution and under the doctor's supervision.
Blood thinners such as aspirin can prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks, but they can also cause bleeding and stomach ulcers, so they should be used with caution.
There is no known way to prevent giant cell arteritis, but some lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of complications and improve the quality of life. These include:
Quitting smoking: Smoking can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Eating a healthy diet: A balanced diet that is low in saturated fat, salt, and sugar, and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help lower the blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, and prevent weight gain.
Exercising regularly: Physical activity can help strengthen the bones and muscles, improve the blood circulation, and reduce the stress and depression. The doctor can advise on the type and intensity of exercise that is suitable for each patient.
Getting enough sleep: Adequate sleep can help the body heal and restore its energy. The doctor can suggest some tips to improve the sleep quality, such as avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine before bedtime, and following a regular sleep schedule.
Managing stress: Stress can worsen the symptoms and the inflammation of giant cell arteritis. The doctor can recommend some relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or counseling, to cope with stress.
A diagnosis and treatment for giant cell arteritis are necessary as soon as possible. You should see your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the symptoms of giant cell arteritis, including a new or severe headache, vision problems, or jaw pain. You can live a long and healthy life with proper treatment and care, and you can prevent vision loss and other complications.
