Giant Cell Arteritis

[Labbyj]

I has a right temporal biopsy and was diagnosed with GCA in November 2023.

I had been in handout of the hospital during the month of September and October, prior to the biopsy, with an array of symptoms such as fatigue, major weight loss, low grade fever, Koss of appetite and tremendous pain in jaw and hips.

My medical began prednisone treatments on November 1st, and its been a roller coaster ride thus far. I am optimistic, and hopeful that we will figure out the appropriate protocol to manage this disorder. Thank you for allowing me access your site.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi and welcome, sorry to hear you have GCA,

Perhaps have a look through FAQs when you feel up to it -maybe start with this general info/intro post

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

And then these GCA specific ones -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk....

When you’ve found your way around please can I ask you to enter more info on your bio -such as date of diagnosis -starting dose, but about yourself and what issues you had before diagnosis -helps us and means we don’t have to ask the same questions over again. 😊

This may help -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

Always someone around -so just ask anything, anytime..,

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Hi and welcome - the more the merrier here! All welcome providing they stick to our guidelines.

As DL has said - tell us about yourself and your history re GCA and we will do all we can to make it all less of a nightmare.

[DogAgilityObsessed]

hi and welcome. I’m still learning about GCA having been diagnosed from a TAB about a month after you. We are on this journey together.

I had PMR already (albeit in remission) and I certainly recommend this forum to help with all questions.

[Grammy80]

Welcome and you are in the right place. When I was diagnosed in 2019, I had more questions than answers. Once I got my head together a bit, I found this wonderful forum. I live in the States and could find no support group at all.

I never felt alone and could always get support here, as well as education. It helped me be a better patient as I gained knowledge. I'm so glad you are here...and everyone else is always here to help and support. It has made my journey easier by sharing. ❣️

[Bachblues]

Sorry you’ve got it. This forum is brilliant; a vast collective of knowledge and supportive others who have experienced the vagaries of GCA. It’s a great help to me: thanks to everyone!

[sidra1968]

Welcome, you will find very knowledgeable and understanding people here.