Jeanmh

[Jeanmh]

Hello can anyone help me understand gca just had a phoe call from Drs to go for another blood test as I'm on the border line with my last blood test do understand what it means thank you

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I'm sorry jean - what blood test? Do you already have a diagnosis of GCA? If not, what symptoms have you had?

[piglette]

Dear Jean, I am sorry you may have GCA. As PMRPro says what blood test? There are lots of different blood tests one can have. I always ask for a copy of the results, so I can check how things are going. You get the description of the test, the result and usually the normal range, so they are quite easy to understand. Also what symptoms have you got, headache, jaw pain, tender scalp, eye problems???

[Jeanmh]

Already been diagnosed as having GCA started on 12 steroids now down to 6 Dr rang to say I need another blood test as I'm on the borderline befor she sees me again February could it mean I'm going to be ok

[piglette in reply to Jeanmh]

Jean, do you have any symptoms? I assume you cut down to six tablets because the twelve steroid tablets had solved the pain. Because you are taking steroids your blood inflammation markers should be reduced by the steroids. GCA can cause blindness but because you have been diagnosed and are taking steroids you should be OK. You should have regular blood tests to ensure everything is still OK. Probably once a month to start with. Ask your GP for the results of your blood tests.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Jeanmh]

It may be your blood test shows the inflammation marker is rising again - which means that perhaps the steroid dose is not quite high enough.

[Jeanmh]

Thank you to all who sent replies to my post .Rang my DRs about me needing another blood test thinking it was to do with my GCA markers ,But was told it is not to do with that it is for another issue So I do apologise but I did find your replies helps a lot as I am new to this