@sassysaveur, my symptoms progressed and when I began having scalp pain and headaches, as well as some elevation in my inflammatory markers, I started prednisone. I had a normal US of the arteries at that time. I don’t remember whether I received a GCA diagnosis, but it wasn’t something I was willing to mess around with. Are you seeing a rheumatologist? I’m glad to hear that you are getting appropriate treatment, but a specialist may be helpful for the diagnosis.
For now, my PMR is in remission and I’m working on getting my stamina and flexibility back. Fortunately, PMR does seem to burn itself out and let you get back to your own more normal life. Hang in there!

@sassysaveur I am sorry you are going thru the "not convinced cycle". I on the other hand did not have GCA symptoms, I was totally asymptomatic yet a PET scan lead doctors at one leading teaching hospital to Dx GCA while the doctors at the leading teaching hospital where the PET scan was actually run denied their radiologist report and were not convinced. Since I was asymptomatic, I was confused and frustrated. Back to the diagnosing hospital, another doctor at that center requested an MRI/MRA of my chest. Back to the imaging hospital and it found a possible aneurism in my aorta, it could also be plaque buildup, inconclusive. I am now being monitors by a well-respected, highly trained aorta specialist and will be until I die. Last week I had an MRI/MRA of my head and neck and they found another problem which will require treatment and close monitoring to prevent a crisis. I have no idea what I am in for on this one. My ophthalmologist assures me I have no eye damage or signs of GCA.

What I am suggesting is that you consider pushing for imaging. I have found some rheumy's are reluctant. My treating rhuemy did not order any of mine, it was a PCP and a neurologist that were the ones who wanted to be exhaustive in their diagnostic effort. I wish you the best on your journey.

@sassysaveur
So sorry you are in limbo regarding the GCA. I had the strangest onset of my GCA (no PMR as of yet, but sore and stiff exists now and then). I had the biopsy and they couldn't even find my artery on either side, so only have the symptoms to diagnose with. No clear diagnosis - So I guess I am going to error on the side of GCA because it is nothing to mess around with. Like so many have said, you have to be your own advocate and you know your body best. I am in constant denial of having GCA and would like to have a PET/CT of my head if that would tell me, but I fear unless there is a flare up, nothing would show. SO- in summary, I feel like I'm crazy too, still denying GCA (but really know better.) This whole auto immune illness is so elusive and different for each one of us. I will keep checking on this thread to see if someone answers you with a definitive answer! P.S. I did make sure that GCA was in my medical records so if I end up in ER, they can see it.

@sassysaveur
I was diagnosed with PMR in March of 2025 by my GP.
Prednisone helped tremendously, but my CRP and SED kept climbing. Finally saw a rheumalotogist in October, where he daignosed me with GCA. Inflammatory markers still high, and based DX on symtoms. Unrelenting headache, pain in jaw, temple, and ear - all on right side. Plus night sweats and weightloss.
Upped prednisone and added Actemra.
Had bilateral biopsies and CT scan couple weeks later. Didnt show arterey damage, but still treated for GCA.
Had a relapse this february, back up on prednisone and switched from actemra to Rinvoq. Rollercoadter ride for sure!
I think having a good rheumatologist is key. The cant diagnose either condition based on blood tests, but a combimation of symptoms.