Imagine the following situation: a person over 50 years old begins to experience a headache different from their usual ones. The pain is more severe on the side of the head, in the temples region. When combing their hair, they feel a tender scalp. When eating, they notice fatigue or pain in the jaw when chewing. Additionally, they begin to experience episodes of blurred vision or even momentary loss of vision in one of their eyes.

These signs should not be ignored. They may indicate a condition called temporal arteritis, an inflammation in the blood vessels of the head that can present significant risks if not treated quickly.

What is temporal arteritis?

Temporal arteritis is an inflammation that affects some arteries (vessels that carry blood) in the head region, mainly in the temples.

This inflammation makes it difficult for blood to pass through, which can affect important structures, such as the eyes. Therefore, it is a condition that requires prompt attention.

It is more common in people over 50 years of age and occurs more frequently in women.

Main signs and symptoms

Be alert to the most common signs:

  • New headache, different from usual

  • Pain or tenderness of the scalp

  • Pain or fatigue when chewing

  • Blurred vision or vision loss

  • Excessive fatigue

  • Low-grade fever

  • Weight loss without apparent reason

  • Body aches, especially in the shoulders and hips

One of the most important points: vision can be affected rapidly and, in some cases, permanently, if left untreated.

Risk factors

Some characteristics increase the chance of developing temporal arteritis:

  • Age over 50 years

  • Female sex

  • History of another condition called polymyalgia rheumatica (body pain and stiffness)

  • European ancestry (more common in some populations)

  • Genetic predisposition (cases in the family)

Having these factors does not mean the person will develop the disease, but it warrants heightened awareness of symptoms.

Possible complications

When not treated quickly, temporal arteritis can cause important complications:

  • Vision loss (can be sudden and irreversible)

  • Double vision

  • Stroke (CVA)

  • Problems in large vessels of the body, such as dilation (aneurysm) of the aorta

  • Persistent pain and limitation of daily activities

Therefore, early diagnosis and initiation of treatment make all the difference.

How is the diagnosis made?

Diagnosis begins with a conversation with the patient and physical examination. Afterwards, some tests help confirm the suspicion.

Most common tests:

  • Blood tests that show whether there is inflammation in the body

  • Ultrasound of the arteries in the head region

  • In some cases, a small biopsy (removal of a small piece of the temporal artery for analysis)

It is not always necessary to wait for all tests before starting treatment, especially if there is risk to vision.

How is treatment performed?

Treatment must be started as quickly as possible, often before complete confirmation.

It is generally done with:

  • Corticosteroids (medications that reduce inflammation) in high doses initially

  • In more severe cases, intravenous treatment may be necessary

  • In some situations, other medications may be added

Treatment helps control inflammation and, most importantly, prevent complications such as vision loss.

Can it be prevented?

There is no specific way to prevent temporal arteritis.

Therefore, the most important thing is to recognise the signs early and seek medical attention quickly.

The earlier treatment begins, the lower the risks.

Not every headache is simple. When it develops differently from usual, especially after age 50, and is accompanied by symptoms such as pain when chewing or changes in vision, it is essential to investigate.

This content is intended to inform and guide. It does not replace a medical consultation. If you or someone close to you experiences these symptoms, seek professional evaluation for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Rebeca Soares Andrade CRM-GO 39335