Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis is an inflammatory disease affecting the arteries in the temples. This condition causes inflammation and damage to the vessel walls, leading to the narrowing or blockage of the arteries and decreasing organ blood flow. 

Symptoms may include headaches, fever, fatigue, and vision problems. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, blood tests, and biopsy. 

If left untreated, temporal arteritis can lead to severe complications, such as vision loss. Early diagnosis is key to preventing further damage. 

At EyesNY, we offer treatment options to slow the progression of temporal arteritis and improve your health. Our experienced team of specialists offers caring and custom eye care.

Narrowed arteries, due to inflammation, cannot deliver blood with normal oxygen levels. When the arteries leading to the eye are damaged, insufficient oxygen supply leads to permanent damage to the eye and optic nerves.

The causes of temporal arteritis remain unknown. However, it is believed to be involved with an autoimmune attack response in which artery walls are damaged. 

Temporal arteritis often occurs with a disorder called polymyalgia rheumatic. Genetics, age, and sex are thought to be related factors.

Some common symptoms of temporal arteritis include:

• Severe headache in the temples
• Skin tenderness in the affected area
• Jaw pain when chewing
• Vision problems, like double vision, blurry vision, or temporary vision loss 
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
  

For a precise diagnosis, visit any of our locations in New York. Our eye specialists can identify the earliest stages of temporary arteritis through a comprehensive eye exam.

Our specialists might ask about your medical or family history of eye diseases during your eye exam. Knowing about your lifestyle and family can help determine if you have temporal arteritis. 

To provide a diagnosis, your Ophthalmologist may perform multiple tests and studies, including:

• A physical exam where your doctor will look for signs of inflammation in arteries, such as swelling or tenderness
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scan
• A biopsy

If your doctor determines you have temporal arteritis, treatment will likely start as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications, such as vision loss. Early detection is crucial since vision damage from temporal arteritis is irreversible.

Although there is no cure for temporal arteritis, timely treatment can help you manage its symptoms. The primary treatment for temporal arteritis involves glucocorticoids, such as prednisone. Depending on the extent of damage, the prescription may range from intravenous to oral.

Prednisone reduces inflammation in the affected arteries, eliminating headaches and tenderness while stopping the progression of vision loss. The dosage is gradually reduced over the treatment period, which may take up to two years. 

It is crucial to promptly begin treatment with prednisone, especially if experiencing visual loss symptoms. 

Some side effects that could arise because of the temporal arteritis treatment include weight gain, high blood pressure, and skin thinning. Patients undergoing this treatment may be recommended calcium and vitamin D supplements.

EyesNY offers multiple treatment options to help patients with the early detection of temporal arteritis and stop vision loss. Our specialized team of ophthalmologists is ready to assess your needs and give you the high-quality vision care you deserve. 

We work with cutting-edge technology to identify the root cause of your condition and create personalized treatment plans. Our caring staff is ready to welcome you and meet your ocular health and vision needs. 

We offer comprehensive ophthalmology services, including temporal arteritis treatment. 

If you’d like a consultation or more information, call us or schedule an appointment online. You can also visit any of our clinic locations around New York, including Malta, Clifton Park, Troy, Saratoga Springs, and Queensbury.