Update

[Boozsa]

So after the vascular surgeon canceled my December 13th appointment because he doesn’t treat TA/GCA anymore I was referred to a general surgeon and I am scheduled for a TA biopsy on Jan 2. It’s been such a long journey just to get to this point but I’m thankful I’m here. Will update after the biopsy

[SheffieldJane]

You are being treated in the meantime with Prednisalone aren’t you, if you have GCA symptoms?

[Boozsa in reply to SheffieldJane]

Sadly no. It’s been a long road as I said. I was referred to 2 rheumatologist and dismissed because of my ESR being “normal” and my age (44) as of tomorrow

I was put on prednisone and responded rapidly but taken off by the first rheumatologist. I’m watching my vision and symptoms closely and keeping a journal. It’s all I can do until the biopsy, it’s a big deal for me to be getting one and I just want answers

[SheffieldJane in reply to Boozsa]

You can present yourself in the emergency room of a hospital. GCA is as serious for your well being as an impending stroke.

[Boozsa in reply to SheffieldJane]

I know and I have. You should read my other posts. I’ve had really bad inconsistent care. I had an ER doctor tell me to exercise my thunder thighs to help my pain. I first presented with PMR symptoms and have yet to be diagnosed with either. He was referring to my hip/pelvic pain that they couldn’t diagnose with X-ray. It’s been a difficult journey.

[SheffieldJane in reply to Boozsa]

I am sorry. It’s dreadful when they won’t take you seriously. It sounds like you were disrespected to. A very poor show. Good luck!

[SheffieldJane in reply to SheffieldJane]

I suppose they are hooked on your extreme youth but it is not unknown. I read your journey - horrible. May it be resolved quickly. I guess I messed around as a suspected hypochondriac for at least a year before I achieved the blessed relief of Pred for PMR.

[Boozsa in reply to SheffieldJane]

I am happy to hear you got diagnosed and treatment. It’s such a painful disease and I hate to hear of any suffering because doctors won’t listen. I too have been treated as a hypochondriac, drug seeker( even though I put my foot down and said no more narcotics over a year ago, I’ve also been treated as if it were a mental health problem. All that said I just want to feel better and get some of my life back. Will update after biopsy. Thank you for the support. These posts have kept my hope for diagnosis and treatment and sanity intact numerous times

[Tonylynn in reply to Boozsa]

Have you been tested for Lyme disease? If not make sure you get a blood test as Lyme is know to mimic diseases such as PMR.

[Angiejnz in reply to Boozsa]

I think I might appear at ER and claim terrible headaches, jaw aches and not being able to see properly, but then I do have a long history of acting and a degree in BS**t. Good luck and as happy a Christmas as you can manage