Here’s a 5-Minute Read on Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Causes of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Complications of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Diagnosing Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Treating Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Come to 1Health Medical Center If You Are Experiencing Any Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Do you suffer from persistent pain as well as stiffness in your muscles and joints? You might be experiencing symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia Rheumatica, shortened to PMR, is basically a medical condition, which causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the muscles. This happens to be a health disorder that is often mistaken for arthritis. This is seen to be typically more common in older adults, people over the age of 50. Also, it is seen that women are more likely to develop the condition than men.
Causes of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
The exact causes are still not known, but this condition is thought to be governed by 2 major factors, which may be involved in the development of such a hazardous health condition:
Genetics: PMR could be autoimmune in nature i.e. related to some alterations inside the body’s immune system. Certain gene(s) & gene variations are likely to augment the susceptibility.
Environmental Exposure. Fresh cases of such a problem are usually seen to be encountered on a periodic basis, possibly seasonally. This suggests that environmental triggers, including viruses, might play a pivotal role here. However, no such specific viruses are known to cause PMR.
Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
The most common symptoms of PMR are pain in the muscles of the neck, buttocks, shoulders, upper arms, thighs, and hips. The pain is usually very bad in the morning time and as the day progresses; it tends to improve with more and more activity. Other symptoms of PMR include:
Aching muscles
Stiffness in the muscles, specifically in the shoulders, neck, and hips (especially in the morning time or after inactiveness for a duration of time)
Aches and stiffness in wrists, knees, and elbows
Difficulty moving around
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Mild feverish condition (sometimes)
Weight loss (unintended)
Depression
Malaise (A common ill feeling)
Complications of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
The condition can largely affect the patient’s ability to perform day-to-day activities, including something as simple as getting out of the bed, standing up from a sofa or a chair or getting out of the car, combing hair, bathing, or getting dressed.
Diagnosing Polymyalgia Rheumatica
A diagnosis of PMR is typically made based on the symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, blood tests may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treating Polymyalgia Rheumatica
There is no cure, but treatment can help to relieve symptoms. Such treatment for PMR typically involves the use of steroids & medications such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended.
Come to 1Health Medical Center If You Are Experiencing Any Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
If you are experiencing any symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica, it is important to seek medical help right away. 1Health Medical Center is a leading provider of care for this condition. Our experienced team of doctors can provide you with the treatment you need to get back to feeling your best. Please come to 1Health Medical Center for a consultation. Our experienced doctors will be able to properly diagnose and treat your condition.