What condition is indicated by an elevated sedimentation rate along with visual spots and a left-sided headache?

An elevated sedimentation rate, which indicates inflammation, alongside visual disturbances and a unilateral headache—specifically on the left side—strongly suggests temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis. This condition primarily affects older adults and can lead to serious complications such as vision loss if not treated promptly. The combination of systemic inflammation, indicated by an elevated sedimentation rate, and neurological symptoms like visual spots and headache is characteristic of this condition.

Temporal arteritis involves inflammation of the temporal arteries and can cause headaches, the most common of which is usually unilateral, along with other symptoms such as jaw claudication and visual impairment. The presence of these specific symptoms, particularly in an older patient, aligns well with the diagnosis of temporal arteritis. Other conditions listed do not typically present with the combination of systemic inflammation and visual symptoms to this extent, making temporal arteritis the most fitting answer.