As you start your treatment, remember that if something doesn’t work the way you thought it would, talk with your healthcare provider to find what will work for you.

Prednisone is very important for the treatment of giant cell arteritis (GCA), but it can have several side effects. These include upset stomach, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, mood changes, and weak bones. Talk to your healthcare provider about these possible side effects and how best to manage them.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your healthcare provider right away if you have:

• jaw pain and stiffness
• scalp tenderness
• a new or returning headache that lasts more than 24 hours and isn’t helped by over-the-counter medicine
• new or returning pain in your arm or leg that happens with exercise but gets better with rest
• more than 1 hour of morning stiffness or pain in your neck, shoulders, or hip

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

• new changes to your vision, like blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss
• sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg
• sudden confusion or trouble speaking
• sudden, severe headache

Talk to your healthcare team any time you:

• have questions
• notice your symptoms getting worse
• have problems with your medicine
• have been waiting longer than expected for test results or to hear about an appointment

For health advice any time, day or night, call Health Link at 811.