What are the symptoms of cranial arteritis?

Cranial arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly the arteries in the head and neck. The symptoms of cranial arteritis can vary widely but may include:

1. Headache: Persistent, severe headaches, often located in the temple area, are a common symptom of cranial arteritis. The headache may be throbbing or dull and may worsen with movement.
2. Scalp tenderness: The scalp may feel tender or painful to the touch, especially over the temples.
3. Jaw pain: Pain in the jaw or tongue when chewing or talking, especially with large or hard foods, is common in cranial arteritis.
4. Vision changes: Vision changes, such as double vision, blurred vision, or sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, can occur due to inflammation of the blood vessels supplying the eyes.
5. Flu-like symptoms: Some people with cranial arteritis may experience symptoms similar to the flu, such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches.
6. Facial pain or numbness: Pain or numbness in the face, particularly on one side, can occur due to inflammation of the facial arteries.
7. Scalp ulcers: In rare cases, cranial arteritis can lead to the development of ulcers or sores on the scalp.
8. Other symptoms: Other less common symptoms of cranial arteritis may include weight loss, loss of appetite, and stiffness or pain in the shoulders or hips.

It’s important to note that cranial arteritis can cause serious complications, including blindness, if not treated promptly. If you experience any symptoms of cranial arteritis, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment typically involves corticosteroid medications to reduce inflammation and prevent complications.

What are the causes of cranial arteritis?

The exact cause of cranial arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis, is not known. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, in this case, the blood vessels. Several factors may contribute to the development of cranial arteritis, including:

1. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing cranial arteritis, as it tends to run in families.
2. Age: Cranial arteritis is more common in older adults, particularly those over the age of 50.
3. Gender: Women are more likely to develop cranial arteritis than men.
4. Ethnicity: Caucasians, particularly those of Northern European descent, are at higher risk of developing cranial arteritis.
5. Infections: Some researchers believe that infections may trigger an immune response that leads to cranial arteritis, although the exact role of infections in the development of the condition is not clear.
6. Other factors: Smoking and certain medications, such as long-term use of corticosteroids, have also been associated with an increased risk of developing cranial arteritis.

It’s important to note that while these factors may increase the risk of developing cranial arteritis, the condition can occur in individuals without any known risk factors. More research is needed to fully understand the causes of cranial arteritis.

What is the treatment for cranial arteritis?

The primary treatment for cranial arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis, is corticosteroid medication to reduce inflammation in the affected blood vessels and prevent complications. Treatment for cranial arteritis typically involves:

1. High-dose corticosteroids: Treatment usually begins with high doses of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to quickly reduce inflammation. The dose is then gradually tapered down over several months to a lower maintenance dose.
2. Long-term corticosteroid therapy: Some people may need to continue taking a low dose of corticosteroids for an extended period to prevent relapses.
3. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of symptoms and blood tests to check for signs of inflammation and monitor the effects of corticosteroid therapy.
4. Other medications: In some cases, other medications such as methotrexate or tocilizumab may be used in combination with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and lower the dose of corticosteroids needed.
5. Complications: If cranial arteritis has caused complications such as vision loss or aortic aneurysm, additional treatments may be necessary.

It’s important to start treatment for cranial arteritis as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications, including permanent vision loss. If you are diagnosed with cranial arteritis, your healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your response to treatment and adjust your medication as needed.