POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA (PMR)
What is polymyalgia rheumatica?
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a disease that causes stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulders and hips. The stiffness is usually worse in the morning. Without treatment, the stiffness and pain can get worse over time.
The cause of PMR is unknown, but immune system problems and aging are possible factors.
Who gets PMR?
PMR is most common in people older than 50. Women get PMR more often than men, and white people get it more often than people of other races. However, people of all ages and ethnic groups can get PMR.
How can my doctor tell I have PMR?
People with PMR often go to their doctors because their bodies ache and are stiff. They might have low fevers and feel tired. They usually have these problems a while before they go to their doctors. People with PMR might have tender muscles.
Your doctor will talk with you and examine you. Then your doctor might order lab tests. Based on your problems and what your exam and lab tests show, your doctor will decide if you have PMR.
How is PMR treated?
PMR is usually treated with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (some brand names: Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (one brand name: Naprosyn), or with a steroid such as prednisone. Your doctor will decide whether one of these medicines is right for you.
You will probably need to take the medicine for some time. You should feel better within a few weeks after you start taking the medicine. Take your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you. Call your doctor if you have any side effects from the medicine.
What is temporal arteritis?
Some people get temporal arteritis at the same time as PMR. Temporal arteritis is an inflammation of the arteries in the head, forehead and scalp. It has some of the same symptoms as PMR but is a more serious disease.
It is important to tell your doctor right away if you have headaches, or a burning or tingling feeling in your scalp. Your doctor also needs to know right away if you start having jaw pain, tongue pain or problems with your vision.
If you have any of these problems, your doctor might want you to give you a test to see whether you have temporal arteritis.
What can I do to get better?
- Take your medicine as directed by your doctor.
- Tell your doctor about any side effects of your medicine.
- Exercise lightly but regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet and make sure you get plenty of calcium.
- See your doctor if you still have problems.
Copyright American Academy of Family Physicians