Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis: A Comprehensive Guide

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) are two inflammatory conditions that affect the muscles and arteries, respectively. PMR is characterized by pain and stiffness in the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and hips. GCA is characterized by inflammation of the arteries, which can lead to vision loss, stroke, and other serious complications.

Both PMR and GCA are more common in people over the age of 50. Women are more likely to develop PMR than men, while men are more likely to develop GCA.

The symptoms of PMR and GCA can vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis: a survival guide. 2nd edition

by Kate Gilbert

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	496 KB
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PMR

• Pain and stiffness in the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and hips
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Night sweats

GCA

• Headache
• Vision loss
• Double vision
• Jaw pain
• Scalp tenderness
• Pain in the temples
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

The diagnosis of PMR and GCA is based on a physical examination and a review of the patient's symptoms. Blood tests can also be used to help diagnose these conditions.

PMR

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• C-reactive protein (CRP)

GCA

• ESR
• CRP
• Temporal artery biopsy

The treatment for PMR and GCA typically involves medication to reduce inflammation.

PMR

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Prednisone

GCA

• Prednisone
• Tocilizumab
• Sarilumab

The outlook for people with PMR and GCA is generally good. Most people with PMR will experience a complete recovery within a few months. People with GCA may require long-term treatment to prevent complications.

PMR and GCA are two inflammatory conditions that can affect people of all ages. These conditions can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, fatigue, and vision loss. The diagnosis and treatment of PMR and GCA is based on a physical examination, a review of the patient's symptoms, and blood tests. The outlook for people with PMR and GCA is generally good. Most people with PMR will experience a complete recovery within a few months. People with GCA may require long-term treatment to prevent complications.

Alt attributes for images:

• Image 1: A woman with PMR experiencing pain and stiffness in her neck and shoulders.
• Image 2: A man with GCA experiencing pain in his temples.
• Image 3: A doctor performing a temporal artery biopsy to diagnose GCA.
• Image 4: A group of people with PMR and GCA attending a support group.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis: a survival guide. 2nd edition

by Kate Gilbert

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	496 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	177 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE