Changing symptoms in a flare of PMR

[Manihiki]

Just wondering whether it is usual for symptoms to change with different flares?

I usually know that I am starting to flare because I get symptoms in my arms and shoulders. My CRPs also usually elevate up around 20 (5 and below is deemed normal in NZ). This time I have no shoulder or arm pain but the muscles in my legs and lower back have been excruciating and when I went and had my bloods done my CRPs were 37. My rheumatologist saw them and immediately rang me to say to up the prednisone (I was on 4mg) and a day later I can certainly feel the relief.

I also have been diagnosed with GCA in the past and this time could also feel slightly the tight headachy band start and that has also dissipated.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I think it varies over time but no doubt the average rheumy would disagree!

[Manihiki in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks for your quick reply. My rheumatologist always says go on symptoms but I was thrown this time because I am so used to having the shoulders as a warning.

[Darkchocolate1]

Every time I have had a flare the pain is in different places, shoulders, feet, lower back and hips. Shoulders is first then usually hips are suddenly very weak and painful. After a few days on higher dose the pain disappears. If you have osteo arthritis also it can be confusing if it is PMR. Tylenol or parancetemol helps the osteo pain but never helps the PMR pain.

[Manihiki]

thanks for your reply. I think what threw me this time was no involvement of the shoulders.