Not sure anymore

[Charlieanna12]

Before Christmas I was and still am getting stabbing pains in my shoulder blades. It started on the left side and is now in both shoulders, although worse on the left. I have muscle aches, sometimes pins and needles in my fingertips and a stabbing pain in my right temple. Lastly, the fatigue is like nothing I have ever known. I can sleep all day and nap during the day.My GP thought PMR and gave me a 10 day course of 20mg steroids. Fortunately or unfortunately I never noticed no improvement. Next step, my GP referred me for a Cervical Spinal x-ray. This has been rejected by the radiologists and returned to my gp. I'm now waiting for a date for an MRI.

The GP has also ordered a blood test to check my Parathyroid function, lymphocytes because I was diagnosed with Lymphopenia in October 22.

I'm confused and scared, scared of what the MRI might show. Anyone have any ideas, this pain is unbearable.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Ten days was a bit on the short side really - some people need more and/or longer. But you mention temple pain - does the GP know that? If it is GCA that is hatching, 20mg would be too low. Do you have any other symptoms: weight loss or sweats for example?

I think you need to go back to him.

[Charlieanna12 in reply to PMRpro]

Hi, my GP is aware of the temple pain. I do have sweats which can be anytime throughout the day but no weight loss. In fact I have been putting weight on, particularly around my mid section. I do have neck pain and some days , particularly the mornings it's an effort even to get dressed.

[SheffieldJane]

This sounds awfully like GCA with a PMR type presentation. You need to be tested for GCA as a matter of priority in my view. Mine was diagnosed by a vascular ultrasound scan. Don’t be afraid of the tests they are to be welcomed in our age group. I have had all the tests that you list and more and nothing was found. GCA elimination should be your doctor’s top priority because of the eyesight risk. Let us know how you get on and try not to worry too much about what may never happen. All best wishes going forward. 🍀

[Charlieanna12 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you so much for your response. All this is new to me. I had never heard of PMR or GCA. I have noticed that my eyesight has got worse, I wear varifocals' 24/7 but I've just put this down to my eyetest being due. To be honest, I really don’t mind the outcome, i just need some answers now, a reason for the pains and a life that is pain free. I have arthritus in both hands, feet and legs. I'm struggling with that because I'm allergic to anti inflammatory medications. I have been taking Joint Ace for more than a year. They have helped but recently my hands have become more painful, maybe that is all part of PMR.

I will chase my Doctor and bring GCA up and request an appointment.

Many thanks for your kind words and good luck on your journey.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Charlieanna12]

If your vision is a bit off - try to get an appointment with MECS or UES,

primaryeyecare.co.uk/services/

GCA may cause changes that can be seen in a proper eye exam so it is worth getting that looked at - your local CUES optician would be best.

[SheffieldJane]

Your optician could be of assistance here if they are well equipped. A thorough eye examination could show GCA signs in the arteries that feed into your eyes. I am sorry that you are currently suffering so much. I hope you get a definitive diagnosis and effective treatment very soon. X

[Charlieanna12 in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thankyou again. I'll make an appointment for the opticians. I too am preying that we will all get some relief from our daily pain. X