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Has anyone fought Polymyalgia without prednisone successfully?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: May 2 1:52pm | Replies (60)Comment receiving replies
I developed what I am sure is PMR about 4 years ago. Saw multiple doctors but my blood work was always in the normal range so I was told I didn't have it and sent to a different doctor. Finally, I gave up and took massive doses of ibuprofen to just survive. Gradually got about 80%+ better and I can do everything I want with just minimal pain. Still usually take 3-4 Ibuprofen a day but I decided that was better than prednisone. I have yearly blood work and so far the ibuprofen seems to not be causing me problems. I know this isn't for everyone but it has worked for me when all doctors gave up on me.
Replies to "I developed what I am sure is PMR about 4 years ago. Saw multiple doctors but..."
Hi Gail.
Would you be willing to share a little about your PMR? How did it feel to you? Bi-lateral, I take it, for starters. Any info about how it felt to you and where it was located would be very much appreciated.
Also, have you had any reflux or other issues from the Ibuprofen? Even sporadically?
Do you take your Ibuprofen with food, just water, milk? And at any time of day or night?
Lastly, how often are you checked and do you know what labs are measured?
Thanks so very much! I have not been formally diagnosed yet, but pretty darned sure I have PMR. I am also trying the Ibuprofen route, but so far only taking 1 200 mg per day at bedtime. Been about 30 days now. I take it with a piece of bread and cup of Lactaid. I did eat a larger than normal dinner last night, 1 cookie and a little Skinny Pop after 9:30, then took the Advil.
Again, best to you and many thanks. I keep getting interrupted! Hope this makes sense.
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Thank you so much for sharing your experience. So many people say NSAIDs don't help, but it does seem they are helpful when the pain isn't so great, and when blood work is normal. I feel like there's no 'safe' drug, so both prednisone and NSAIDs need to be monitored, and both can have side effects. Please know I was glad to hear you found something that worked for you. I also hope you might find better doctors down the road, that take your pain seriously. Best wishes!