My mother is in her late 70's and has had the condition, temoral arteritis for the last few years, probably around 3 or 4. She is on a low dose steroid to keep it in check. Her psyician tried stopping the meds about a year ago as she was on such a low dose at teh time he thought maybe the condition had cleared up but after several weeks it was obvious it had not as her symptons were back and she was back on a high dose of the steroid until it was undercontrol.
During that time she had diverticulitis and a small part of the bowel removed as this condition remained unnoticed as the steroids had masked the symptoms somewhat. (Could the diverticulitis be related to the arteritis??)
Anyway, wondering what would be the best alternative therapist to see to help with her condition as there is obviously an underlying cause and the steroids are merely surpressing the symptoms.
any advice appreciated! 🙂
Hi, yes I think you're right- the steroids won't 'cure' this (very painful) condition but will just keep it under control for as long as she's taking them. I'd suggest homeopathy -but then as a homeopath I would wouldn't I! More importantly, what does she want to do about it? If she is interested in complementary or alternative treatment, what does she feel attracted to? Personally, I'd say that would be the way to go. Any good therapist will talk with her first and say whether that particular treatment could be suitable or not. She needs to go to someone that she feels comfortable with. Hope she gets some help soon. Hom
I would be tempted, at her age, to leave well alone, or get advice about supplements to give her immune system some help. My husband has this too. He is in the 'reducing stage', but every so often gets a flare-up, so increases the dosage by .5mg for a week or so. He has been on steriods for nearly 4 years now - he prefers taking them than coping with the alternative - the pain - he is due to stop taking steriods in August 2011. With the support of his GP, he is taking supplements and is generally healthy.
I do not believe the diverticulitis is linked.