Update...as advised, raised from 3.25 to 8mg and rang Rheumy Dept to inform them of flare. Was offered an f2f appt today. Not my usual Rheumy, but very thorough. Sent me for ultrasound whilst I was there and returned to her for results...no sign of i flamation.Her opinion was that I was having too many flares...I had recorded them for her and she was pleased to accept my list over the 3 years....7 wobbles altogether...I would say 4 proper flares. Arranged a whole raft of bloods tomo, as she wants to liase with other docs to see if I am steroid dependent and if I was a suitable patient for Methotrexate...which I expressed concern about as it is only 50% successful for GCA patients. She hinted that I could have Tocilizumbab? Actemra in order to titrate completely. First stage is to return gradually to 5mg by 1mg each week whilst the bloods are assessed. Then a nurse counsellor to discuss the new regime.I feel I might be persuaded to introduce one or the other...when I would like to just sit on 5, or 4 and just stay there...
Any and all advice and observations would be welcome to help me to self advocate. Many thanks in advance.