Polymyalgia rheumatica
Overview
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a condition that causes pain, stiffness and inflammation in the muscles around the shoulders, neck and hips.
Symptoms
The main symptom is muscle stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 45 minutes. Other symptoms may include: extreme tirednessloss of appetiteweight lossdepression See a GP if you have pain and stiffness for more than a week. They'll try to find out what's causing it. Diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica can be difficult because the symptoms are similar to those of many other conditions, includingrheumatoid arthritis. These conditions will need to be ruled out before polymyalgia rheumatica is diagnosed.
Causes
The cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to be responsible. Polymyalgia rheumatica is an age-related condition. Most people diagnosed with it are over 65, and it's very rare in people younger than 50. It's also more common in women than men.
Treatment
Steroid tablets (Prednisolone) for 1-2 years. Dose reduced slowly.
Prevention
Unknown.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: pain/stiffness in muscles >1 week. Urgent if vision changes (GCA risk).