If you have GCA, who is treating you?: - PMRGCAuk
If you have GCA, who is treating you?
I attend GP, rheumatology and ophthalmolgy.
I also have reg appts with Rheumatology Nurse Specialist who is also contactable by phone Mon -Fri. A very usual service as she can in discussion with consultant adjust / change medication which reduces waiting times for "decisions" to be made.
I also have appts with Opthalmology dept re GCA and glaucoma ( steroid induced )
I have also been given a specific phone number to contact on call opthalmologist ( out of hours ) if I experience any visual disturbance.
Recently had a Abdominal Aortic routine scan as I have GCA.
Also treated in Rheumatology Day Ward for Cyclophosomide treatment.
My comment about PMR also applies to my GCA.
I am attending a Consultant Rheumatologist for PMR and Ophthalmology due to a diagnoses of Temporal Arteritis after a biopsy. Initially I was taken to A and E with pains in my chest and breathing problems after 5 months of pain and discomfort and no help from my GP, my blood pressure was sky high and I was immediately diagnosed with Tempoal Arteritis, confirmation came a few days later after a biopsy.
I am being seen at bi-monthly intervals by a Specialist in the Eye Hospital where I was diagnosed GCA [with biopsy confirmation] and admitted straight away upon losing sight in one eye. My GP keeps an eye on my Blood-Pressure levels and adjusts the medication to suit, as the Steroids have the effect of lowering BP within a few hours and it pays to check accordingly. Now down to 6mg of Prednisolone daily [allowed to drop 1mg/month] but still suffering from some of the usual side-effects e.g., bruising/itching skin/slight [now on lower dose] unsteadiness. Now 10 months on single-sight and still waiting for DVLA approval to drive [or otherwise?] This after 2 eye-tests for peripheral vision.
Moderation team
