Is this GCA?

[Rosiecavapoo]

Could I please pick the brains of you wonderful people on this forum?

I was diagnosed in July 2023 and I’m now on 12.5mg of pred.

I know all of us with PMR are always aware of any GCA symptoms we may have.i would like some advice as I have symptoms but some are not typical as listed.

I have severe headaches and pain in my upper cheek (not quite the temple) I have a dull ache when I chew but again more in the cheek. But when I brush my teeth it does ache to keep my mouth open.

So you see not completely typical but it may need monitoring.

What do you more knowledgeable people think.

Many thanks, this forum really is a life line.

Jayne

[SnazzyD]

Hello, well I think it thoroughly reasonable to get it checked out asap, as in today, in case it is GCA. Yes, we talk about temporomandibular joint dysfunction, sternokleidomastoid muscle issues, inflamed sinuses and others. But, those can be checked and sorted as and when, GCA if that is the cause, needs early intervention. You also have a history of PMR which should sound warning bells to the doctor.

The pain doesn’t have to be in the temple with GCA; some get it around the eye, scalp, ear, base of skull, forehead as well as jaw. If you have had a cold recently it could be low grade sinusitis. Yes, TMJ problems can cause problems with chewing but someone needs to decide if it is the muscles running out of oxygen (GCA) rather than the jaw joint not working smoothly. If you have lots of crunching when you open and close your mouth and chew, the TMJ it could be but it’s not for us to say. The headache on top is a bit suspicious. I’d call your GP or 111 at the very least to sort the wood from the trees.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I agree with all SnazzyD says - definitely something that needs to be checked in view of possible GCA, I had jaw claudication for a time with PMR symptoms - not so much pain but a very tired jaw when chewing and it was difficult to keep my mouth open for teeth cleaning or at the dentist. I didn't know about the significance back then though and was never asked about it but I also had other symptoms that were more like GCA then PMR. I was lucky, they faded after a few months but if they were appear now I'd be on to my rheumy pdq!

[Rosiecavapoo in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you ladies. On your advice I’ve phoned GO and got an appointment this afternoon. Will keep you posted

[Rosiecavapoo in reply to Rosiecavapoo]

GP

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Rosiecavapoo]

Can't resist it - do not pass go ...

[SheffieldJane]

I would definitely want these symptoms to be investigated, without delay.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Needless to say agree with others and please let us know how appointment goes..

Might be TMD -but certainly need checking.