The symptoms of giant cell arteritis (GCA) can vary. Many people experience severe headaches, head pain and tenderness, particularly around the temples. GCA can affect your eyesight, causing sudden vision loss or double vision. Blindness caused by GCA generally occurs first in one eye, but can also occur in the other eye if the condition is not treated. That is why it is extremely important to have your condition evaluated by an ophthalmologist right away.
Other symptoms may include:
- Flu-like symptoms including headache, fatigue, and fever;
- Blurred vision;
- Double vision;
- Scalp tenderness;
- Jaw pain, especially when chewing;
- Stiffness or pain in the neck, hip or arms; and
- Unexplained weight loss.
Next Page: Who Is At Risk for Giant Cell Arteritis?
