Very puffy below eyes.

[Aleish]

On 20 mgs prednisone for two 12 days. GCA as far as 65 sed rate, tmj, some vision changed and periodic scalp soreness. Doc not good and will see new rheumatologist on Wednesday. Undermedicated and very concerned. All the PMR symptoms are much better though. Does the puffyniss under the eyes come from GCI or possibly prednisone? I know I need to go to 4o mgs prednisone a day asap. I have enough prednisone to do on my own because I am very worried to have to wait till Weds. Does anyone know if 20 mgs. will keep me safe till Weds.?

[Nethyman]

Do not understand your abbreviated second sentence.

However, I was diagnosed with GCA 12 months ago. Symptoms included headache above the eyes, like nothing I had experience before. Prednisolone will create the puffiness. Also, I was told it will alter the vision.

You are lucky to see the rheumatologist so soon. I had to wait some time.

Hope my experience helps.

[Aleish in reply to Nethyman]

Did they get you started on the 40mgs of prednisone as protocol calls for?

[Nethyman in reply to Aleish]

Hi Aleish

My GP started me on 60mg. Which was effective within 3 days.

I agree that jaw claudication is a symptom of GCA, from which I suffered at the time.

I took control, but the choice is yours.

David

[Rimmy]

If your vision is affected before you see the new specialist it would be concerning - and as others have stated here this should be regarded as a 'medical emergency' and you would need to seek emergency treatment. There is no guarantee 20mg will 'keep you safe' and even a 40mg dose may not be sufficient as that is the amount usually prescribed for 'uncomplicated GCA' - that is without ANY 'visual symptoms' so you may need even more. If it were me I would act with a high degree of suspicion and be careful not to minimise your symptoms if there is any question at all your eyesight is at stake.

Best wishes with everything

[Aleish in reply to Rimmy]

Vision is really bit better in regard to all the issues even at 20, but my jaw hurts bad when eating.

[Tj2017]

Hi Aleish,

Claudication of the jaw is also a symptom of GCA. As mentioned above, please don't mind Mike your symptoms. Your eyesight could be at stake.

TJ

[PMRpro Ambassador]

There are doctors who feel that 20mg is enough to manage the vast majority of GCA cases - but if there are visual symptoms most rheumies would use more, just in case. If your symptoms are improving you would probably be OK - but if they don't improve I would go to the ED for advice if you can't get hold of a decent doctor immediately. Part of the problem with starting a higher dose now is that your rheumy won't see it in its full glory - and may minimise what you describe to him if he can't see it himself.