Polymyalgia Rheumatica is a condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips, making movement difficult, particularly in the morning.

• Immune system dysfunction: PMR is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
• Genetic predisposition: Certain genetic markers may increase the risk of developing PMR.
• Environmental triggers: Infections or environmental factors could potentially trigger the onset of the disease in susceptible individuals.

• Age: PMR typically affects people over the age of 50, with most cases occurring in individuals over 70.
• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop PMR.
• Ethnicity: The condition is more common in people of Northern European or Scandinavian descent.

• Muscle pain and stiffness: Particularly in the shoulders, neck, hips, and thighs. The stiffness is often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Limited range of motion: Movements such as raising your arms or standing up from a seated position may become difficult due to stiffness and discomfort.
• Fatigue and weakness: The persistent discomfort can lead to a general feeling of tiredness or low energy.
• Mild fever or weight loss: Some individuals may experience a low-grade fever or unexplained weight loss.

• Severe, sudden headaches: This could indicate a condition called giant cell arteritis, which sometimes occurs alongside PMR.
• Vision problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss are warning signs that require immediate evaluation by a healthcare provider.
• Jaw pain while chewing: This can also signal giant cell arteritis, a complication that needs urgent treatment.

• Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will ask about symptoms, including the location and severity of pain and stiffness, and will conduct a physical exam to assess range of motion.
• Blood tests: Inflammation markers, such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), are often elevated in individuals with PMR. Blood tests can also rule out other conditions.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to detect inflammation in the joints and tissues. These tests can help confirm the diagnosis or exclude other causes of pain.

• Corticosteroids: Low doses of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are the most common treatment for PMR. These medications can quickly reduce inflammation and ease symptoms.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): While NSAIDs like ibuprofen may provide some relief, they are typically less effective than corticosteroids in treating PMR.
• Physical therapy: Gentle exercises and stretches can help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and maintain muscle strength.
• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress can all help reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.

• Severe muscle stiffness or pain: Particularly in the shoulders, hips, or neck that limits daily activities.
• Persistent fatigue or fever: Ongoing tiredness or low-grade fever that accompanies joint or muscle pain.
• Sudden headaches or vision problems: These could indicate giant cell arteritis, a serious complication that requires urgent medical attention.

• Early detection and treatment: If you start noticing muscle pain or stiffness, especially if it’s sudden or severe, seeking prompt medical attention can help manage the condition more effectively and prevent complications.
• Regular exercise: Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can improve muscle strength, flexibility, and overall mobility, which may help manage PMR symptoms.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress can support overall health and may help reduce inflammation.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking is known to increase inflammation in the body, so quitting smoking may reduce the risk of inflammatory conditions like PMR.

• Adhere to prescribed treatment: Regularly taking medications like corticosteroids as directed by your healthcare provider can help control inflammation and prevent symptoms from worsening.
• Monitor symptoms: Keeping track of any changes in pain, stiffness, or other symptoms can help you and your doctor adjust treatment if necessary.
• Stay physically active: Gentle exercises can keep joints flexible and reduce the stiffness associated with PMR, which helps maintain mobility and quality of life.