Experiences with
Polymyalgia rheumaticaSymptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica
The main symptom is muscle stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 45 minutes.
Other symptoms may include:
- extreme tiredness
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- depression
See a GP if you have pain and stiffness for more than a week. They'll try to find out what's causing it.
Diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica can be difficult because the symptoms are similar to those of many other conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis.
These conditions will need to be ruled out before polymyalgia rheumatica is diagnosed.
Causes of polymyalgia rheumatica
The cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to be responsible.
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an age-related condition. Most people diagnosed with it are over 65, and it's very rare in people younger than 50. It's also more common in women than men.
Treating polymyalgia rheumatica
A steroid medicine called prednisolone is the main treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica. It's used to help relieve the symptoms.
To start with, you may be prescribed a moderate dose of prednisolone, which will be gradually reduced over time.
Most people with polymyalgia rheumatica will need a course of steroid treatment that lasts for 12 months to 2 years to prevent their symptoms returning.
SymptomsMedical treatmentsCausesMost people with polymyalgia rheumatica have very stiff muscles when they wake up. You may also feel tired or depressed and lose your appetite.
The main treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica is steroid tablets. These ease the symptoms by reducing the inflammation in your body.
The cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is unknown. It's more common in people over 65 and very rare in people under 50.
Related links
HealthUnlocked contains information from NHS Digital, licensed under the current version of the Open Government Licence
