Waking up with severe stiffness in your shoulders and hips? Don't ignore these signs. Understanding polymyalgia rheumatica is the first step to getting an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to reclaim your mobility and quality of life.
What are the main causes of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
- The exact cause of what is PMR remains unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors.
- Age is a very significant risk factor, as the condition almost exclusively affects adults over the age of 50, with onset typically around 70.
- Evidence suggests an abnormal immune system response to an environmental trigger, such as a virus, may play a role in causing the inflammation.
Key symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica to watch for
- The hallmark polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms are pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and hip areas, which are typically much worse in the morning.
- Many people also experience systemic symptoms like fatigue, a low-grade fever, loss of appetite, and unintended weight loss due to widespread inflammation.
- Blood tests often reveal high ESR levels (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), which is a key marker indicating significant inflammation is present within the body.
How can you prevent Polymyalgia Rheumatica effectively?
- As the specific cause is unknown, there are currently no definitive methods or lifestyle changes that can prevent the development of polymyalgia rheumatica.
- The key to preventing long-term complications is early and accurate diagnosis, distinguishing it from conditions that have similar symptoms, like PMR vs fibromyalgia.
- Preventing serious complications like vision loss requires monitoring for symptoms of giant cell arteritis, a related condition that causes headaches and jaw pain.
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While a PMR diagnosis can be challenging, effective polymyalgia rheumatica treatment is available. If you suspect you have PMR, consult a rheumatologist for a proper evaluation and to discuss treatment with prednisone for PMR.
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