Bronchiestasis and polymyalgia rheumatica

[Busybee57]

Good Morning everyone, I hope you are all enjoying the run up to Christmas, I am certainly looking forward to the holiday rest. I was wondering if anyone has a diagnosis of bronchiestasis and polymyalgia. I have been experiencing really weak arms and shoulder pain and my GP suggested polymyalgia so I am having blood tests on Friday. I wasn't sure if there was any correlation. Grateful for any info/ help.

Thanks in advance

Bridget 🐝X

[mskpjb]

Hi Busybee57 I have severe COPD but when I was milder I had a very bad time with PMR - it raises it's head now and then still. I don't think it goes hand in hand with lung disease if that's what you were asking. Take care, Sheila x

[Busybee57 in reply to mskpjb]

Thank you so much Sheila for your reply. I'm still trying to make sense of it all and am very much a need to know sort of person, as I am learning lol. Did you need to take steroids long term for PMR? I hope you are feeling well at the moment Sheila and have a lovely Christmas X

[mskpjb in reply to Busybee57]

Hi Busybee57 yes I was on them about 12 months but I had regular blood tests and my doctor lowered the dose whenever possible. If the next blood test showed the ESR ( erythrocyte sedimentation rate - I think- inflammation ) was up she'd put me back up again. The biggest thing to guard against is overeating ! We all know how steroids can cause the "munchies". Well I munched anything in sight. I'm 5`2 and size 10 but ended up having to buy size 16 clothes. I'm not trying to frighten you just warn you so that you can keep a better rein on your appetite than I did. I don't take steroids for PMR now it seems to have gone into hibernation. Paracetamol's enough for me these days. You'll be fine. Have a lovely Christmas, Sheila xx

[Busybee57 in reply to mskpjb]

Thanks Sheila for the helpful advice X. Did you take amitriptyline too ? I have been prescribed them but am a bit nervous about taking them x

[mskpjb in reply to Busybee57]

No didn't have those but know a lot of people who have. I don't think you need worry about taking them. Sheila x

[Busybee57 in reply to mskpjb]

Thanks Sheila, hope you had a lovely Chritmas day and more fun tomorrow xx