GCA flare

[Susanmod]

Hi

Update on last week, tried 10 for a week - no change. I've spoken to GP, she wants me to do 30 for a week and see how I go then she'll speak to me next week. Does this sound excessive? Just really fed up after getting down to 5. ☹️

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It isn't excessive if it is a GCA flare. Mind you, 10mg is neither here nor there - 20mg would have been a better compromise I'd have thought.

[SheffieldJane]

Golly Susanmod!you are getting contradictory advice with your current state of health. I sincerely hope you obtain total relief from the symptoms on 30.

He did jinx you, you were doing just great, it must be gutting!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi Susanmod,

Hopefully this new advice will get you back on track, do hope so. Your GP seems to have more idea about GCA than the so called specialists.

If the 30mg does the trick, then disappointing as it may be, don't be railroaded into reducing too quickly this time around.

Your GCA is less than 2 years, so in my view you had reduced much too quickly, plus with your holiday, which although you enjoyed, it was almost inevitable that you would flare. Not your fault, but unsympathic reducing plan from original Rheumy.

[jinasc]

I had two flares within the first two years and this is not uncommon............first time back to 60mg, second time 40mg. Both for one week, then steady drop by 2.5mg per week till back to where I was when the flare occurred. Hit it hard and fast...............however much you hate it, just remember, pred is standing between partial or total loss of sight and you want neither.

[Sorop]

Hi I have had PMR Gca for just over a year and had come down from 60mg to 15mg and had a Gca flare due to 3 uti and other health issues so was put back up to 40mg then to start slowly tapering. I feel for you as it is so frustrating to have to almost start again but am having to learn that patience( which does not come easily to me ) is one of the aspects of this journey we are on is needed.

Thinking of you. Good luck.