Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis)

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis (GCA), is a condition in which the temporal arteries, which supply blood to the head and brain, become inflamed. This can cause a range of symptoms, including severe headaches, jaw pain, and vision loss. It is important to diagnose and treat temporal arteritis promptly, as it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of temporal arteritis is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. This means that the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, in this case the arteries. Certain factors may increase the risk of developing temporal arteritis, including age (it is more common in people over 50), gender (women are more likely to develop it), and a history of smoking.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of temporal arteritis can vary from person to person, but commonly include severe headaches (often located in the temples), jaw pain when chewing, and scalp tenderness. Other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and vision loss or double vision. In some cases, temporal arteritis may cause a stroke or other serious complications.

Complications:

If left untreated, temporal arteritis can lead to serious complications, including permanent vision loss or blindness, stroke, and damage to other blood vessels and organs. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these complications.

Prevention:

There is no surefire way to prevent temporal arteritis, but some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing it. These include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a healthy diet.

Treatment:

The primary treatment for temporal arteritis is corticosteroids, which can reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the arteries. In some cases, other medications may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms or prevent complications. It is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor and attend regular check-ups to monitor your condition.

Oriental Medicine:

While there is no cure for temporal arteritis, some people may turn to alternative or complementary therapies to help manage their symptoms. Acupuncture, acupressure, and other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been used to treat a range of conditions, including inflammation and pain. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of these therapies for temporal arteritis, and they should never be used as a substitute for medical treatment.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, temporal arteritis (GCA) is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications. While alternative therapies may be used to manage symptoms, it is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor and attend regular check-ups to monitor your condition.

It is important to note that while some studies have shown potential benefits of acupuncture, acupressure, and other forms of TCM for managing symptoms of inflammation and pain, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness for treating temporal arteritis specifically. Additionally, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before trying any alternative or complementary therapies, as they may interact with other medications or exacerbate underlying health conditions.

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