Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis is a disorder that affects the blood vessels in the head, most commonly the temporal artery, which passes across the forehead. It is an autoimmune disorder caused by inflammation of the blood vessels, which disrupts blood flow to nerve tissue, muscles and other organs. It can cause headaches, throbbing pain on one side of the head, tenderness over the temples, vision problems, fever, fatigue and weight loss. It is a potentially serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment, as it can lead to stroke or permanent vision loss. Treatment typically includes corticosteroids, which suppress the immune system, and other medications to reduce inflammation.