Hearing loss

[Charkha]

Hi everyone, as you know I am new to all this with GCA so grateful for any advice. My question has to do with hearing loss. Since starting the 60mg dose prednisone in September (just now reached the 45 mg taper) my hearing has gradually got worse. And now cant hear at all in one ear. Not sure if this is GCA or prednisone related and also not sure if this indicates flare and I should go up on dose again. Also worse at end of day so should I try splitting prednisone into two doses/morning and evening. Any advice welcome!

[123-go]

Hi Charkha. I'm sorry that you have this added complication. What does your rheumatologist have to say? Have you been examined by an audiologist? The cause of your deafness should be investigated and then treated accordingly. I'm not at all sure that experimenting with Pred doses is the way to go. 😏

[Charkha in reply to 123-go]

Thanks much. Will talk to doctor today and try to get appointment with rheumatologist. I am in US and first appointment I could get was not for several weeks once GP had the initial attack under control. Also will Get to audiologist.

[123-go in reply to Charkha]

Good! The waiting for appointments seems to be a problem in many countries and is so frustrating. Good luck and please let us know of any future developments. 🤞🏼

[Richmond162]

Hi . I was diagnosed with PMR in October 21. Had bad ear in November 21 and since then hearing has diminished. Diagnosed with glue ear and awaiting operation for a grommet to be fitted. I have since been diagnosed with GCA this week as well! My ear is still painful even though I have been on high dose antibiotics. I’m not sure if it is all linked but it’s a horrible feeling not been able to hear properly and be in pain.

[Charkha in reply to Richmond162]

Sorry to hear of your troubles too! Hope you are doing better now. I agree that the hearing problem is very wearing.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Ears can certainly be affected by GCA, so have a look at related posts or type ‘hearing loss’ into search facility…..you really need to speak to your Rheumy team, do you have the helpline number?

You shouldn’t split your dose in GCA certainly in the early days when your illness is not completely under control….. as an ex GCA patient I don’t think you should split at any time, but there are differing views on that.

Plus as 123-go says you need an audiologist appointment.

[Charkha in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks for info on splitting dose. That is good to know. I am in US and am still waiting for appt with rheumatologist but will talk with my doctor today and try and get early appointment with rheumatologist. Thanks so much for help.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I think you really need to speak to your doctor and not try to self-diagnose

[Charkha in reply to PMRpro]

Good advice.

[jinasc]

Link to 'Your Ears' in the FAQ section. Research confirmation.

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk....