GCA - Giant Cell Arteritis

PMR - Polymyalgia Rheumatica

My GCA/PMR Journey

I was diagnosed with giant cell arteritis (GCA) in August 2023—just two weeks after returning from a very active trip to Ireland.

At first, I thought I was simply dealing with lingering jet lag. But something didn’t feel right. I had a persistent headache that wouldn’t go away. I would wake up with it every morning, and I felt constantly fatigued. I just didn’t feel like my normal self.

One morning, on my way to the gym, I made an unexpected decision—I pulled into my doctor’s office instead.

I described what I was experiencing: a recurring headache in my right temple and an unusual level of fatigue. My doctor immediately ordered bloodwork, which showed elevated CRP and sedimentation rate. He quickly suspected polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) or GCA.

Within days, I had a temporal artery biopsy—and shortly after, a confirmed diagnosis of GCA.

I immediately began treatment with 60 mg of prednisone. Since then, I’ve tapered off twice, even reaching zero at one point—but flares, including a recent one in November 2025, have required me to increase the dosage again and begin another long taper. We also decided that I also had PMR.

Like many others with these conditions, I’ve experienced the challenges of prednisone:

• jitteriness

• anxiety and fear

• difficulty sleeping

• dizziness

• and unpredictable aches and pains

I’ve also had periods of intense scalp tenderness, along with pain and stiffness in my shoulders, hands, and hips.

At the same time, I feel extremely grateful for the care I’ve received.

I was referred to a team of rheumatologists at Massachusetts General Hospital who specialize in GCA and are actively involved in research and clinical trials. Having access to such knowledgeable and responsive care has made a meaningful difference in my journey.

From the beginning, my goal has been simple:
Not to be defined by the disease—and to move toward remission, hopefully permanently.

In the years prior to my diagnosis, I had already been exploring the role of inflammation in overall health. When this diagnosis came, it became clear that it was time to fully apply what I had learned.

I made significant changes:

• eliminating processed and inflammatory foods

• reducing simple carbohydrates and alcohol

• committing more deeply to meditation and stress reduction

• giving myself permission to slow down

• adjusting my exercise routine with greater awareness and respect for my body

I became focused on supporting my body in reducing inflammation—and just as importantly, on appreciating life each day.

This experience has changed how I live, how I think, and how I care for myself.

And it’s what led me to create a space where others navigating PMR and GCA can find support, understanding, and a sense of calm.