GCA ...flares or just the usual grumbling pred symptoms...

[Temoral]

Sorry for 2nd post today, but separate issue. What exactly constitutes a flare for GCA please? Am on DSNS tapering...thanks DL...really good so far. What I call 'grumbling pred symptoms' continue...you know the routine buzzy ears, occasional dizziness,brain fog, slight nausia at times and of course fatigue! with occasional slight headaches and sensations around the biopsy site, but nowhere near the scale of the headache before diagnosis. So, ....what would qualify as a flare requiring increased dosage or rheumy contact? This forum is such a great support system of information. Thank you.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I define a flare as a return of the symptoms you had originally although sometimes it can be sneaky and something new crops up! If the symptoms are from the change in dose (and that should be less with DSNS as the change in dose is so small) they should improve over the subsequent week or two for most people, some take longer, and if they are a flare they tend to worsen over time.

[Temoral in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you...that makes a lot of sense....they do fall into a sort of pattern with the reduction.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Temoral]

Often worth keeping a diary with dose/activity/symptoms - makes it easier to identify a pattern and remember what happened last time

[Temoral in reply to PMRpro]

Also good advice...I was keeping one on higher doses, then symptoms diminished and I stopped. Timely reminder to restart the diary. . Thank you.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

PMRpro has replied, and would agree….but guessing you are around the dose when adrenals need to start thinking about working again…so could be that as well, certainly nausea, fatigue and dizziness ….

Couple of links, to have a look at, one on adrenals- healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

….And flare v steroid withdrawal (although slower tapering should eliminate that) -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[Temoral in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you...I'm on 2nd week of 8.5 to 8. It could be a combination of these things. I will read up on the posts. Thank you DL...hope you are keeping well.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Temoral]

Well if you’re only on 2nd week, maybe don’t continue any further for time being…either repeat first week and see what happens, if no better then back to 8.5mg for a bit longer, then try again.

The slower taper makes it easier to get from a) to b)…but if you need a) you need a). …

Me, fine thanks, just been for my Spring Booster…all very organised have to say, and then a cup of coffee and a slice of carrot cake as a reward for being brave 😉…

[Temoral in reply to DorsetLady]

Definitely deserve a large slice of cake 🍰

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Temoral]

Not too large though! 😳

[Grammy80 in reply to DorsetLady]

Oh, dig in, you deserve it~!💕

[Grammy80]

You have heard from the best...I'm just wishing you well and I know I will always take their advice~!!💕💕

[Temoral in reply to Grammy80]

Thanks Grammy...best advice always available on here!

[Grammy80 in reply to Temoral]

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