I am new to this.

[Cwmidwal]

I am female & 65. I am very suspicious that I have PMR but not yet diagnosed.

I am suffering a lot of the symptoms of PMR and awaiting blood tests for confirmation. Symptoms started about 3/52 ago. Achy upper arms and thighs, waking me at night. This has steadily got worse with tightness & discomfort in arm muscles continuing. Such tasks as getting my right arm into the coat sleeve, picking up the kettle, and knitting are at times very painful. Activities like these seem to cause me more pain later on. My already arthritic thumb joints seem particularly painful. They are usually better at this time of year.

As the aching and stiffness was wearing off during the day leaving my arm feeling tender, I was at still unsure if I was imagining it or I had caused a muscle strain. After waking at 4am ish on Monday morning with extremely painful arms. I have decided it was not just my imagination.

I was aware of PMR as my mother had this, so I have not waited any longer to “see what happens” and saw the GP on Monday morning. I have a blood test & follow up booked with GP who also considered PMR the most likely possibility. (Without my mentioning the term.)

I am expecting this as a diagnosis. Not at all happy about it but there is not a lot I can do. I logged in today to look at stuff on the site which was recommended by a friend.

I was wryly amused at this comment on the site. pmrgcauk.com/research.html?

“Morning stiffness is one of the most frequent symptoms in inflammatory diseases. This is because it has been found that the chemicals involved in inflammation are at their highest level at about 4 am”

Ouch yes! Spot on with the timing!

I should know where I stand on Tuesday.

[polkadotcom]

Welcome Cwmidwal to the place you would rather not be! Although your mother has PMR, don't be surprised if your journey through doesn't resemble hers at all - it's such an individual thing it might surprise you.

Hopefully with an early diagnosis you will find it easier and sail through in textbook fashion. Do let us know if we can help at all if you have any questions.

Take care,

[GreyOwl]

Hi Cwmidwal

Hope you get an early diagnosis informing you of the problem so that your medics can get to work on management of the condition.

All the best!

[Hidden]

Sorry that it looks like youv'e joined the club!Everyone is so kind and helpful,good luck.