What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a condition that affects muscles and joints. This condition causes inflammation in the muscles in joints. The cause of this is unknown. The most common symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica are muscle pain and stiffness in the shoulders and hips. It tends to be more common in older people and in females. People with polymyalgia rheumatica are usually treated with steroid medications. Some people will find that their symptoms go away after a period of treatment with steroid medications, while others may have ongoing symptoms or periods of recurrence.

Risks

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a condition that causes inflammation and swelling of joints and muscles. The cause of this condition is not known, but it could run in families. This condition tends to affect women more commonly than men, and almost only affects people who are older than 50 years of age.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain and morning stiffness of both shoulders and hips. Some people notice difficulty standing up from sitting, or that they get swelling of their feet or joints. Additionally, people with this condition may suffer from a low mood, fevers, unintended weight loss, night sweats, and extreme tiredness.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica is usually based on the symptoms and physical examination. Blood tests usually show signs of inflammation in the body and are also used to exclude other possible causes for the symptoms. Ultrasound of the affected joints typically shows inflammation of and swelling of the joint.

Treatment

Polymyalgia rheumatica is usually treated with steroid medications. These are usually taken regularly for 1 or 2 years, after which the symptoms may improve. Some people may need to take these medications for longer. Long-term steroid use can cause complications, and these should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.

## What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?



**Polymyalgia ⁢Rheumatica (PMR)** is a condition characterized by widespread muscle pain and stiffness, primarily affecting people over the ⁣age ​of 50. It primarily targets the muscles of the neck, shoulders, hips, ⁤and buttocks.



**Common Symptoms:**



* Persistent aching⁢ pain and stiffness in ‍muscles

* Morning stiffness that lasts for more than an ⁤hour

* Tenderness and pain in the shoulders and hips

* Fatigue and loss of appetite

* Headaches and depression (in some⁢ cases)



**Causes:**



The exact cause of polymyalgia ‍rheumatica is unknown, but it is believed to be⁣ an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks ⁣healthy tissues. ⁣Various factors, including infections and genetic predisposition, may trigger the‌ development of PMR.



**Diagnosis:**



Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, ⁣and blood tests. Blood tests may show elevated⁢ levels of inflammatory markers such ⁢as ​C-reactive‌ protein (CRP) and⁤ erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). ⁣Imaging tests like X-rays ⁣and MRI scans may also be used​ to rule⁢ out other conditions.



**Treatment:**



* **Medication:** Low-dose corticosteroids are the primary treatment for ⁣PMR. These medications effectively reduce inflammation and pain. Disease-modifying ‍antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed in‌ some cases.

* **Physical Therapy:** ⁣Gentle stretching and exercise can help ​improve flexibility ⁣and reduce stiffness.

* **Lifestyle Modifications:** Adequate rest and avoiding strenuous activities can help ‌manage​ symptoms.



**Complications:**



* **Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA):** PMR‌ is associated with an increased risk of developing GCA, a condition that​ causes inflammation of the arteries.

* **Osteoporosis:** Long-term use of corticosteroids can ⁢weaken bones, increasing ⁢the risk of osteoporosis.

* **Cataracts:** Steroids used to treat PMR may‍ increase the risk of developing cataracts.



**Prognosis:**



With early ‌diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most people with PMR can ‍experience significant improvement in symptoms within a few months. However, some may experience prolonged or recurring ‍symptoms. Regular monitoring by a ⁢healthcare⁤ professional is‌ essential to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes.