Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder and the common symptoms of the condition include muscle pain and stiffness. The pain and stiffness will be mostly in the hips and shoulders. The symptoms start very quickly and are observed to be worse in the mornings. Usually, seniors over the age of 65 develop this condition. Only in rare circumstances does it affect people that are under the age of 50.
What Are The Symptoms Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
The symptoms of the condition can occur on both sides of the body. Some of the common symptoms of Polymyalgia rheumatica include:
- Pain in the shoulders.
- Stiffness noticed in some body areas, especially in the mornings.
- Stiffness or pain in the wrists, knees and elbows.
The condition is also associated with more general symptoms including:
- Fatigue
- Mild fever
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Weight loss
What Are The Causes Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
The cause of this condition is still a mystery to science. Two factors are crucial in the development of this condition:
- Genetics: Some genes and gene variations might put you at greater risk of developing the condition.
- Environmental triggers: It is being observed that new cases of polymyalgia rheumatica are coming in cycles. This sheds light on the possibility of an environmental trigger like a viral infection influencing the condition. However, as of now, no specific virus strainhas been found to cause this condition.
What Are The Risk Factors Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
The common risk factors associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include:
- Sex: The likelihood of women developing the condition is two or three times more than that of men.
- Age: The condition affects people belonging to the older age group more. It is known to mostly affect people who are in their 70s.
- Race: The disorder is reported to be prevalent among white people with ancestry from Northern Europe or Scandinavia.
What Are The Complications Associated With Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
In some people, polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms can become so severe to a point that their ability to perform everyday activities is disrupted. They can find it very difficult to get dressed, or comb hair.
If you notice any symptoms that are similar to that of polymyalgia rheumatica, it is advisable to visit a doctor at the earliest and find out what your symptoms really mean.