Giant cell arteritis

Giant cell arteritis is inflammation of medium and large arteries, almost always in people aged 50 or over. A new headache, jaw pain when chewing or vision symptoms must be assessed the same day to prevent blindness and stroke.

• A new persistent headache, often at the temple or back of the head, different from previous headaches.
• A tender scalp, for example pain when combing hair or lying on a pillow.
• Take glucocorticoids exactly according to the schedule and never stop them suddenly.
• Report every new vision symptom or return of headache and jaw pain immediately.
• Call the same day for a new headache, tender scalp or jaw pain when chewing from age 50.
• For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.