The medical profession lacks precise knowledge of what causes polymyalgia rheumatica or PMR, although they have linked the disorder to the immune system. PMR affects people over 50 and is most common around age 70, which suggests aging plays a role in its development.

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National Organization for Rare Disorders

Harvard Health

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Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disease characterized by pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints. It most commonly affects the neck, shoulders, and hips, but can influence the rest of the body as well.

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People over the age of 50 are at greater risk of developing this condition. Symptoms are usually worse in the morning, or after long periods of inactivity. In addition to pain and stiffness, people with PMR may also experience fatigue, anemia, flu-like symptoms, low-grade fever, and overall weakness.

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PMR seems to be associated with temporal arteritis, which is an inflammatory disease of blood vessels in the head.

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Treatment usually involves corticosteroids which are continued for a few years following the onset of PMR. Sometimes the condition will resolve by itself, but the use of medication and lifestyle changes like exercise and a healthy diet may help speed up recovery.

Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

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