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Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Urgent
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, neck, and hips. Symptoms are often worse in the morning or after periods of rest. It mainly affects adults over 50 and may occur together with giant cell arteritis, which can cause headaches, vision problems, and other vascular symptoms.
Body System
Muscles & Tendons
When to Seek Medical Attention
Polymyalgia rheumatica requires prompt medical assessment because it can occur together with giant cell arteritis, which can threaten vision. Seek medical care for new severe headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing, visual changes, or other symptoms suggesting giant cell arteritis. Sudden vision loss requires emergency medical attention.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, neck, and hips. Symptoms are often worse in the morning or after periods of rest. It mainly affects adults over 50 and may occur together with giant cell arteritis, which can cause headaches, vision problems, and other vascular symptoms.
Symptoms 3
Back Pain
Fever
Muscle Weakness
Causes 2
The exact cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is unknown. It is thought to involve inflammation related to the immune system and may result from a combination of genetic and environmental influences. The condition is strongly associated with older age and can occur alongside giant cell arteritis, another inflammatory disorder affecting blood vessels.
Autoimmune Disorder
Inflammation
Risk Factors
Polymyalgia rheumatica occurs almost exclusively in adults over 50 and is more common in women. Risk may also be influenced by genetic and geographic factors. Having giant cell arteritis is closely associated with PMR, and people with PMR may develop symptoms of giant cell arteritis. There are no established lifestyle measures known to prevent the disorder.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Polymyalgia rheumatica is diagnosed from the pattern of pain and stiffness, medical history, and physical examination. There is no single test that confirms the condition. Blood tests such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein may show inflammation. Additional testing may be used to exclude rheumatoid arthritis, other inflammatory disorders, infections, or malignancy.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no known way to prevent polymyalgia rheumatica
Because the condition is associated with giant cell arteritis, people diagnosed with PMR should be aware of new headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain while chewing, or visual changes and seek prompt medical evaluation if these occur
Regular follow-up can help monitor symptoms and treatment-related complications
Prevention Guidance
There is no known way to prevent polymyalgia rheumatica. Because the condition is associated with giant cell arteritis, people diagnosed with PMR should be aware of new headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain while chewing, or visual changes and seek prompt medical evaluation if these occur. Regular follow-up can help monitor symptoms and treatment-related complications.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Omega-3 Foods
May reduce inflammation
Fresh Fruits
Support overall health
Vegetables
Provide nutrients
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
May worsen inflammation
Sugary Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
An inflammatory condition causing pain and stiffness.
Adults over age 50 are commonly affected.
Shoulder and hip stiffness with pain.
Using symptoms and blood tests.
Yes, treatment often provides significant relief.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.