What are the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica?

Answer 1

Polymyalgia Rheumatica causes severe aching in both shoulders and both hips and some times in the lower back and neck. Average age of onset is seventy. Quite often PMR happens to people who have been very active all of their lives. The pain can be so severe as to limit ability to exercise. Pain is worse in in bed at night and in the mornings or after sitting down for a while. Usually by noon, the pain lessens, but not always. This is a common experience for people with PMR. Aspirin and other NSAIDS do not have much affect on the pain. Most affective treatment seems to be a form of Cortisone -- often Prednisone -- to control symptoms. Usually the dosage can be low, perhaps 5 to 10 milligrams, but higher doses may be required. With that regimen one is able to lead a normal life, free of pain. However, taking any form of cortisone carries many possible and undesirable risks. (See listed web site for more information on side affects). This condition often resolves or disappears in a year or two. No one knows what causes PMR. It is not really Arthritis, but often sufferers call it that. Doctors perform several blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. Symptoms are also indicative of the diagnosis. However, patients are usally tested for Lupus during the PMR screening process, as well as the usual arthritis blood test (again see listed websites. Mayo Clinic's web site offers details on the tests used). There can be a more serious side affect of PMR and that is Giant Cell Arteritis which can affect the heart. One should definitely be checked by their doctor if they have the symptoms of Polymyalgia Rhuematica. Here are two great references for this condition -- or two web addresses -- for anyone who wants to know more. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/pmr_new2.asp http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/polymyalgia-rheumatica/DS00441

Answer 2

Pain and stiffness of larger muscles, headache may add to the discomfort. The scalp is often tender. Pain is usually worse at night. There may be fever and weight loss before the full disease appears.

Answer 3

A mild anemia is often present. A blood test, an erythrocyte sedimentation rate, is very high. And to check for giant cell arteritis which can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Answer 4

Responds dramatically to cortisone-like drugs in modest doses. Also nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Temporal arteritis is treated with higher doses of cortisone.

Answer 5

A neurological exam, blood tests (to determine the level of muscle enzye creatine kinase), electromyography, muscle biopsy (muscle cells surrounded by immune system cells indicates disease).