A headache caused by inflammation of the region over the temporal artery, usually occurring in older people.
Inflammation of the cranial arteries, especially a temporal artery on the side of the head; it occurs most often in elderly women and produces symptoms of headache, chewing difficulty, and sometimes impaired vision.
Inflammation of the temporal artery. Also known as giant cell arteritis, it often affects other arteries also, mainly in the head. It predominantly affects the elderly. The artery becomes tender with reddening of the overlying skin; headache and blindness may also occur. The diagnosis is confirmed by temporal artery biopsy, and treatment is with steroids.
A chronic inflammation of large arteries, usually the temporal, occipital, or ophthalmic arteries, identified on pathological specimens by the presence of giant cells. It causes thickening of the intima, with narrowing and eventual occlusion of the lumen. It typically occurs after age 50. Symptoms include headache, tenderness over the affected artery, loss of vision, and facial pain. The cause is unknown, but there may be a genetic predisposition in some families. Corticosteroids usually are administered.
Let us delve into the realm of medical conditions and explore a notable ailment referred to as giant cell arteritis, alternatively known as temporal arteritis. This condition involves inflammation of the major arteries situated in the temples, characterized by the presence of oversized cells and accompanied by symptoms such as headaches and facial pain. Giant cell arteritis is a significant health concern that requires prompt medical attention, as its impact on the affected arteries can lead to various complications. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, thereby alleviating discomfort and preventing potential complications.
A rare condition observed in elderly individuals, characterized by inflammation of the arteries’ walls situated in the scalp around the temples. This inflammation can extend to other arteries in the head and neck, including the aorta (the main artery carrying oxygenated blood from the heart) and its primary branches. The result is a constriction of these inflamed blood vessels, leading to a diminished flow of blood through them.
The precise cause of temporal arteritis remains uncertain; however, there could be a connection between this condition and polymyalgia rheumatica, characterized by muscle pain and stiffness in areas like the hips, thighs, shoulders, and neck.
The primary indication frequently experienced is an intense headache situated on either side of the head or both sides. The temporal artery, positioned above the earlobe on the side of the head, might become prominent and the scalp sensitive. Approximately half of the instances involve the ophthalmic arteries that supply the eyes, potentially leading to sudden blindness if left untreated. Additional symptoms encompass fever and diminished appetite.
Prompt reporting of symptoms is crucial because of the potential threat of blindness. The identification of temporal arteritis is established through blood assessments, such as ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and occasionally through a biopsy (tissue sample) of the affected artery.
Administration of a corticosteroid medication typically yields swift results; alternatively, immunosuppressant drugs might be prescribed. Generally, temporal arteritis resolves entirely within a span of two years.