My TAK Treatment

A look at my medical treatment to manage my disease.

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As mentioned in the last post, Takayasu's Arteritis is a lifelong chronic condition that requires monitoring with medical testing, specialist appointments and drug management.

Here is a list of the specialists I currently see: Rheumatology, Cardiology, Cardio-thoraic surgery, Ophthalmology, Endocrinology, and ENT.

I have also seen: Hepatology, Hematology, Allergy/Immunology, Infectious Disease, Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Pulmonology, Dermatology, Sleep Specialist.

I also see a family nurse practitioner, gynecologist, chiropractor, and dentist on a regular basis.

Over time I have been treated with the following medications or combinations of medications:

Corticosteroids: Prednisone, Medrol, Actos, Hydrocortisone and IV Solumedrol.

Immuno-suppressants: Cellcept, Methotrexate, Leuflonomide

Biologics: Remicade, Enbrel, Actemra, Kevzara, Humira

All these drugs have risks, benefits and side effects. Long-term high dose steroid use has a long list of side effects. Mayo Clinic provides this list of corticosteroid side effects:

• A buildup of fluid, causing swelling in your lower legs.

• High blood pressure.

• Problems with mood swings, memory, behavior, and other psychological effects, such as confusion or delirium.

• Upset stomach.

• Weight gain in the belly, face and back of the neck.

When taking corticosteroids by mouth for a longer term, you may experience:

• Problems with the eyes, such as glaucoma or cataracts.

• A round face, which is sometimes called moon face.

• High blood sugar, which can trigger or worsen diabetes.

• Increased risk of infections, especially with common bacterial, viral and fungal microorganisms.

• Bone fractures and thinning bones, called osteoporosis.

• Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and muscle weakness.

• Thin skin, bruising and slower wound healing.

In addition to the medications that directly treat the TAK, I take several cardiac mediations to control my blood pressure and cholesterol. I also take a few medications that treat the side effects the other medications cause. And then there are supplements - specifically iron, Vitamin D and a probiotic

I routinely have EKGs, Echocardiograms, blood work, and an annual Cardiac MRA.

Keeping track of the appointments, testing and medications can be overwhelming. I have found that keeping all my care in the same hospital system and using their electronic records management (MyChart) is extremely helpful to stay organized. I also use a paper calendar to help track medication dose changes. Having a Medical Alert bracelet/tag gives me piece of mind that my medical information is available if I am not able to provide it to my medical professionals.