What Is Giant Cell Arteritis?
4. Vision Problems
Interference in blood supply can badly affect certain organs. Without sufficient oxygen and nutrients, they may not function as expected, and cells may die. Temporal arteries deliver blood to the eyes and when compromised, can lead to vision problems. GCA sufferers are especially vulnerable to this problem. Early intervention is often needed to avoid temporary double vision from escalating into blindness.
Double vision makes people see two images of the same object. Temporary vision loss can also occur, with the effects often more pronounced in one eye. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reverse these effects, but if left unattended, can become permanent blindness in at least one eye. This happens in as much as 25-50% of untreated cases.
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