DESCRIPTION:

Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is an inflammatory condition affecting the medium-sized blood vessels that supply the head, eyes, and optic nerves. The disease usually affects those over 60 years of age and causes the vessels in the temple and scalp to become swollen and tender. Women are approximately 4 times more likely to suffer from this disease then men.

The major concern with temporal arteritis is vision loss, although if allowed to progress, it may affect arteries in other areas of the body. This condition is potentially vision threatening, however, if treated promptly, permanent vision loss can be prevented. Vision is threatened when the inflamed arteries obstruct blood flow to the eyes and optic nerves. If untreated, permanent vision loss can occur from oxygen deprivation to the retina and optic nerve.

Description from: stlukes-eye.com

RECOMMENDED READING:

Stop Inflammation Now!: A Step-By-Step Plan to Prevent, Treat, and Reverse Inflammation-The Leadingcause of Heart Disease and Related Conditions
The Inflammation Cure : How to Combat the Hidden Factor Behind Heart Disease, Arthritis, Asthma, Diabetes, & Other Diseases
The Inflammation Syndrome : The Complete Nutritional Program to Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease, Arthritis, Diabetes, Allergies, and Asthma

LINKS OF INTEREST:

NINDS Vasculitis including Temporal Arteritis Information Page
Temporal Arteritis Information
Diagnosis and Treatment of Temporal Arteritis
Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
ahealthyadvantage.com