Polymyalgia rheumatis is an inflammatory disease. Researchers do not know what triggers this inflammation. While some studies have linked gene variants to this disorder, these findings are inconsistent across populations. It is also unclear whether the aging process plays a role in the development of this disorder.
Symptoms
Polymyalgia rheumata is an inflammatory disease that affects the muscles of the body. It can be characterized by various symptoms, including headaches, numbness, stiffness, pain in the hands, neck, and jaw, and fever. Symptoms may also include pain while eating or chewing.
The most common symptoms of polymyalgia reumatica are muscle and joint pain. These aches and pains are usually worst in the morning and may spread to the hips or thighs. Patients may also experience fatigue and unexplained weight loss. Night sweats may also be a common symptom.
A thorough history and physical examination are needed to make a definitive diagnosis of polymyalgia rhumatica. Specialist blood tests may be done to rule out other diseases. The presence of elevated CRP and other inflammation markers indicates polymyalgia rheumatica. Although the disease is relatively harmless, it is essential to rule out other possible causes before beginning treatment.
Physiotherapists can prescribe a customized exercise program for people with polymyalgia rheumatoid arthritis. Regular exercise will help relieve muscle pain and stiffness. It may also improve physical activity and decrease the frequency of flare-ups.
Blood tests and ultrasounds are other ways to confirm a diagnosis of polymyalgia rhumatica. Blood tests monitor C-reactive protein levels and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which are indicators of inflammation. An ultrasound examination can also show whether inflammation is present in the joints.
Treatments
One of the most important treatments for polymyalgia rhumatica is exercise therapy. Regular exercise improves strength and flexibility in the muscles and joints. Exercises suitable for people with this condition include cardiovascular exercise such as running or walking. Strength training exercises that use resistance bands and weights also improve quality of life. Intrinsic core strengthening is also recommended, as it strengthens the muscles in the abdomen that support the spine.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, can also help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with polymyalgia rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids are effective at reducing inflammation, and they are typically prescribed for three months. Patients may also benefit from vitamin supplements such as vitamin D. Physical therapy may help improve strength and range of motion.
A physical examination may reveal a limited range of motion in the shoulders and neck. Patients with PMR may also experience a loss of strength or range of motion in the lower legs and thighs. An examination may reveal that pain is more severe in the morning or later in the day.
Treatments for polymyalgia may include massage therapy, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. Although the condition is largely benign, the symptoms can be debilitating.
Genetics
Polymyalgia rheumica (PMR) is a rare inflammatory disease that affects older adults. It causes widespread muscle pain and stiffness around the joints. Often, it is associated with a more serious condition known as giant cell arteritis (GCA), which can lead to blindness and stroke. The cause of the disease is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified.
The symptoms of polymyalgia rhoea are pain and stiffness that typically begin in the morning and last for 45 minutes or more. Because the condition can mimic other rheumatic diseases, diagnosing it can be challenging. However, there are many ways to confirm the diagnosis. A thorough clinical examination, a patient history, and specialized blood tests are necessary for a proper diagnosis. Blood tests can reveal an abnormally high sedimentation rate and other blood substances. Muscle tissue biopsy is usually not necessary for the diagnosis. The blood test can also show anemia in some people, but it is unnecessary to diagnose the condition.
While no one has pinpointed the exact cause of polymyalgia rhoea, certain studies have linked the disease to the immune system. However, these studies are not conclusive. Researchers are currently trying to determine whether PMR is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of healthy tissue.
