Tips and Hints when hit by Giant Cell Arteritis and/or Polymyalgia Rheumatica


Reservation

Of course the Marijke Foundation is not replacing GP's or medical specialists. The tips and hints below
are mainly based on experience.
As the Marijke Foundation does not accept any responsibility for these tips and hints, we recommend
to discuss them with your doctor/specialist. She/he may also have additional suggestions that can be
of positive influence on your recovery and the quality of life.

Tips and Hints

- avoid sudden changes in temperature, f.i. going in and out of the house or rooms, a supermarket,
  a car, etcetera
- in general: try to avoid low temperatures, do not cool down to much

- prednison/prednisolon (steroids) tend to make patients more energetic; try to limit this side effect
  of the medication
- do everything in a calm and steady rate, not too much and too long efforts at a time
- take rest once the body warns you that it needs it
- but stay frequently in movement and in the outside air
- try as much as possible to relax and to do pleasant things
- avoid excitement, stress, tension, quarrels and so on

- consult your doctor/specialist about the possible negative influence on your recovery of eating
  beef (red flesh; partially or entirely raw)
- pay attention to reactions on nutrition, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, meat etcetera and discuss
  them with your doctor/specialist

- scientific research (2008 - Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam - The Netherlands) has shown
  that medication withdraws vitamins and minerals from the body; therefore, taking a nutritional
  supplement such as multi-vitamins/minerals is advisable, but only in consultation with your doctor/specialist

- never experiment on own initiative with phasing out medication prescribed by your doctor/specialist
- keep on ‘listening’ to your body and consult your doctor/specialist right away when you notice changes
- discuss your situation and developments frequently with your treating doctor/specialist.