1. < Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)

New to PMR diagnosis

Posted by deborah57 @deborah57, Mar 6, 2024

Hi, I am new here and just finding my way. I have some questions. I was recently diagnosed with PMR. I took the initial diagnostic dose of tapered Methylprednisolone and responded immediately so my Dr prescribed 5mg Prednisone while I am waiting to see a Rhematologist.
I haven't started taking it yet.
I am terrified of prednisone. I'm sensitive to drugs and have had numerous bad experiences with some of them. I'm healthy, eat clean, don't drink or smoke, get exercise daily.
Here are some of my questions:
I see a lot of discussion about people trying to taper off Pred. How long are people usually on it before starting to try and taper? If you have been on the drug for awhile, when and why would you decide to taper?
Does anyone have experience with inter muscular injections? Or the new Biologic KevZara?

thanks for any information!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.

wendydarling | @wendydarling | 3 days ago
In reply to @frankiechi "You absolutely should see a rheumatologist. I was diagnosed 15 years ago by my cardiologist. I..." + (show)
@frankiechi

You absolutely should see a rheumatologist. I was diagnosed 15 years ago by my cardiologist. I did some research and living in NY discovered that the Hospital for Special Surgery had rheumatologists who specialize in PMR. I saw him every month for a year for blood work; my inflammatory marker dropped from a hundred to single digits where it has remained. Do see a specialist; don't live in pain. This is a treatable condition.

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Thank you!!

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | 3 days ago
In reply to @wendydarling "Newly diagnosed with PMR ( within last 3 wks) and am looking for any new information...." + (show)
@wendydarling

Newly diagnosed with PMR ( within last 3 wks) and am looking for any new information. My diagnosing physician (GP) seems hesitant to refer me to rheumatologist and I feel I’m in a desert seeking answers for questions I don’t even know exist! Any books, links to current, reliable info would be GREATLY appreciated! I work full time, remotely, at a computer 8+ hrs per day, am 62, and have NO clue what to expect as far as my remaining work life, etc.. Thank you!

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Hello @wendydarling, You will notice that we merged your discussion with an existing discussion so that you can meet some of the other folks who are newly diagnosed with PMR. If you click the link below it will take you to the beginning of the discussion where you can read what others have also shared.
-- New to PMR diagnosis: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/new-to-pmr-diagnosis/

I thought you might also find the video posted by @dadcue in the following discussion helpful.
-- Comprehensive Overview Of PMR: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/comprehensive-overview-of-pmr/

There are so many folks here on Connect that have shared valuable experience and an easy way to find answers for questions you may have is to use the search function with a few keywords related to your question. Here's a sample search using "PMR what helps" - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/?search=PMR+what+helps.

You are your own best advocate so I wouldn't hesitate pushing your GP to get a referral to a rheumatologist.

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