Headaches (temple) ,jaw ache

[Mick1234566]

Polymialgia Rheumatosa. Head and jaw aches. I was diagnosed with Pmr about 9 months ago. Severe muscle problems that prevented me from walking or even getting out of bed but no other symptoms. I've gradually tapered to 2.5 and although the muscle problem has gone (feel like I did before Pmr) I've now got headache temple pain and jaw ache (5mg alleviate the headache). Concerned about going to the medical centre while the Virus is about. Yes I know I should go but can anyone give me some advise.

[SheffieldJane]

Make a note of all your symptoms and book a telephone appointment with your GP. You are perhaps concerned that you are now displaying the symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis. Although related to Polymyalgia Rheumatica, this is a much more serious systemic disease that can have permanent consequences for your eyesight. In fact it constitutes a medical emergency just like a stroke or a heart attack. It is puzzling that you obtain relief with just 5 mgs of Pred. Normally GCA requires a much, much higher dose. You maybe getting a really early warning.

I was diagnosed remotely by my Rheumatologist, but am not out of the woods yet. Let us know what happens to you, you really can’t delay.

[jinasc]

I am sorry but I am going to be hard with this response.

Go now to A&E. You must have been told about what to watch out for, when diagnosed with PMR.

PMR for 9 months and down to 2.5mg - too fast a reduction?

Those symptoms mean GCA and you could be one of the unlucky ones, who develop GCA.

You need to go NOW to A&E. If it is GCA your eyesight is in danger - partial or total loss - it has gone forever. If and it is a big IF, I am wrong you can shout at me when you come back and tell us - you went.

All hospitals are open and they know how to keep you safe.............and you would not be asking the question if Corvid was not around. GO Now.

[Koalajane]

My advice would be to go to the hospital and treat it as an emergency in case it is GCA

[scats]

I agree with the others, your reduction has been fast and things may be flaring up again, this time with GCA. You don't want to risk your eyesight.

My brother had to go to hospital this week for the same reason and said it was the quietest he had seen it. As Jinasc said, they know how to keep you safe. Good luck.

[Topcar]

I too had this problem at Easter and went to A&E it's all very safe there!!! total segregation of patients very reassuring to see!!! I hope you are on your way NOW!!! it's the only thing to do or you will continue to worry and as we all know that stress could make it worse!! Good luck 🤞

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Agree with others - needs to be checked.

Strange that 5mg helped headache if it is GCA - as a matter of interest does jaw ache when chewing but stop when you stop eating? If so, that’s a very good indication of GCA.

But whatever, please get it checked.

And yes... too fast a reduction.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Go to the doctor! The risk of Covid-19 infection in a well-run GP clinic is probably far less than of losing your sight with GCA if that is what it is and definitely so in the ED which is still half-dead in most places. Though I gather it is changing. You are less at risk than if you go shopping - doctors and nurses take the proper precautions!

[SnazzyD]

A&E’s are very organised now and hived off from the Covid patient stream. I’d say the risk of Covid is being far outweighed by the greater risk of blindness or stroke. At the very least get urgent telephone advice to bump up the dose properly.