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Confused on what’s considered “normal”
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 3 hours ago | Replies (8)Comment receiving replies
Thanks John for responding. Information from those who have been there, done that, really helps. I have been keeping a daily log of my pain level (on my own, doc didn’t mention) and what dose I’m taking. I think because it was new for me and she wanted to make sure it was PMR, she also had me go for X-rays shoulders, hips, knees and a sono of my shoulders, I guess to rule out or confirm whatever. When I looked at symptoms, I pretty much checked most of the boxes and will find out for sure on Tuesday for my follow up appointment. From what I’ve read, walking and trying to watch my diet and cut back or out sugar which is a bit challenging seems to help so I’ve been doing that too.
Any suggestions on questions to ask would be helpful too.
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PMR can be a challenge for primary card doctors that haven't had a lot of older patients with PMR. I think that's why a rheumatologist is a better choice if possible. There are a lot of conditions that mimic PMR.
-- Diseases that mimic polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR): https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diseases-that-mimic-polymyalgia-rheumatica
The scary symptom that someone with PMR needs to watch for is tender or pain in the head, scalp, jaw and vision problems which might indicate giant cell arteritis (GCA) and need immediate attention and higher doses of a steroid. It is good to watch what we eat for many conditions including PMR. There is another discussion that you might find helpful.
-- PMR Diet: Foods to eat and avoid
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/diet-and-pmr/
You mentioned wanting to know what questions to ask. Here's a discussion where others shared their suggestions:
-- First meeting with Rheumatologist for PMR, need suggestions:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/first-meeting-with-rheumatologist-need-suggestions/