Giant cell arteritis awareness
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a condition where the blood vessels in your head, especially around your temples, become swollen and inflamed. This can reduce blood flow and cause serious problems if not treated quickly. It is also called temporal arteritis.
Key facts
- It mainly affects people over 50.
- Early treatment is important to prevent vision loss.
- It is treatable with medicines that reduce inflammation.
It is not common, but it is the most common form of vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) in older adults.
Mostly affects people over 50, more common in women, and more common in people of Northern European descent.
Symptoms
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- Stroke symptoms: sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, facial drooping
- Sudden severe headache with stiff neck or fever
- ⚠New headache with jaw pain when eating
- ⚠Vision changes like blurred or double vision
- ⚠Scalp tenderness
- ⚠Symptoms that are getting worse quickly
Common symptoms
- New severe headache, often in the temples
- Scalp tenderness
- Jaw pain when chewing
- Vision changes like blurred or double vision
- Sudden vision loss
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Muscle aches, especially in shoulders and hips
Symptoms in children
- Giant cell arteritis is extremely rare in children. The information here is for adults.
Symptoms in older adults
- Same as common symptoms, but may also include a general feeling of being unwell, mild fever, and stiffness.
Causes
Main causes
- The exact cause is not fully understood. It is believed to be an autoimmune reaction where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the walls of the arteries. It may be triggered by an infection or other factors.
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- Female sex
- Northern European ancestry
- Having polymyalgia rheumatica (a related condition causing muscle pain and stiffness)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have a new severe headache with jaw pain or vision changes, see a doctor the same day.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have been diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica and develop new headache or vision symptoms, see your doctor.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will take a detailed history and perform a physical exam, including checking your temples for tenderness. They may order blood tests to look for inflammation.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests (ESR, CRP) to measure inflammation
- A biopsy of a small piece of the temporal artery to look for inflammation under a microscope
- Sometimes imaging like an ultrasound or MRI
What to expect at your appointment
The diagnosis is usually made quickly because treatment needs to start as soon as possible. You may be referred to a specialist such as a rheumatologist. A biopsy is a minor procedure done under local anaesthetic.
Treatment
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and prevent complications like vision loss. It involves high doses of anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids) that are then slowly reduced over time. Treatment often lasts for many months to years.
Self-care at home
- Rest when you feel tired
- Protect your eyes if you have vision changes
- Avoid stress
- Follow your treatment plan closely
Medical treatments
Medicines called corticosteroids are the main treatment. They work quickly to reduce inflammation. Your doctor will monitor you closely and adjust the dose. You may also need bone-protecting medicines because long-term steroid use can thin bones. Never stop or change your dose without talking to your doctor.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not usually needed for giant cell arteritis. Treatment is mainly with medicines.
Living with this condition
Living with giant cell arteritis means managing a long-term condition. You will need regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor the inflammation and adjust treatment. Most people feel better quickly after starting treatment.
Lifestyle tips
- Get plenty of rest
- Protect your vision
- Avoid activities that might injure your head
- Eat a healthy balanced diet
- Stay active as tolerated
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is important because steroids can affect bone health. Gentle exercise like walking can help maintain muscle strength and mobility.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A diagnosis of giant cell arteritis can be worrying, especially regarding vision loss. It is normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed. Talk to your healthcare team about your feelings. They can offer support.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent giant cell arteritis. Early recognition and treatment are the best ways to prevent complications.
Vaccines
People on high-dose steroids may need vaccinations against flu and pneumonia, as steroids can weaken the immune system. Ask your doctor about recommended vaccines.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening for giant cell arteritis. If you are over 50 and have symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica, your doctor may monitor you for signs of GCA.
Complications
If left untreated
- Permanent vision loss in one or both eyes
- Stroke
- Damage to the aorta (the main artery from the heart)
- Aneurysm (bulging of an artery wall)
Long-term outlook
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, the outlook is generally good. Most people respond well to treatment and can keep their vision and prevent serious complications. Treatment may be needed for one to two years, and relapses can happen, so ongoing care is important.
Find support
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.