Increased Risk of Stroke with PMR?

I feel similarly. It feels like a big dark cloud hanging over me. I really try not to think about it. I’ve started taking a baby aspirin every other day... the Giant cell arteritis has me knotted up too. I want to taper but when I go down to below 10 mg I’ve gotten gca symptoms. Very scary. I just wish there was a a way to reset our immune response. I guess that’s the holy grail for all auto immune disorders. I’m taking turmeric, staying away from sugar, gluten. Any other suggestions?

Hello @layla7511, Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. You will notice that we changed the title of your discussion to better reflect your question. I also have PMR along with a few other conditions including high blood pressure (hypertension) which I had before being diagnosed with PMR. My PMR is currently in remission but I've had 2 occurrences. My rheumatologist never mentioned the risk of stroke with me. I did find some older information from 2014 but it mentions the studies that have investigated a potential association have been small or have not been of good quality.

- Common inflammatory disorder increases heart attack, stroke risk: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/280239

I can imagine that it would also cause me some anxiety and possible stress if my rheumatologist mentioned it to me. Are you able to discuss with your doctor why they feel there is an increase risk and what can be done to lower the possible risk?

I’m PMR/GCA and I know what you are saying about tapering. I’m on my second shot at 9 mg, down from a high of 80 at one time. The last time I was at 9, I started having strange eye problems in one eye. After a visit to the emergency room. My prednisone was increased to 30 mg. Eye problem went away. I’m saying a prayer for no eye problems this time.

@karinaph, There are a couple of other discussions that you might find helpful for suggestions. It looks like you have a good start with staying away from sugar. I also take a turmeric supplement.

- PMR and herbs, dietary supplements: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/pmr-and-herbs-dietary-supplements/
- PMR Diet: Foods to eat and avoid: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/diet-and-pmr/

@alanbruce @sharenb @desertsooner @rogernj67 and @lindapc may have some suggestions.

Thank you John, you’re always so positive and helpful! I’ll read these articles a bit later. Want to get out fir my walk before the sun is entirely gone!

Thank you! The rheumatologist hasn’t given me any specific data. I don’t think I would have other risk factors other than PMR.

Do you feel the turmeric helps?

It is known to be an anti inflammatory. It does have some blood thinning properties according to my Nd. She suggested I take it, but had to eliminate another “ herbal” that I’ve used for arthritic/ muscular pain that also had turmeric in it. So good but needs to be managed with your entire supplement regime. Long answer, I think it helps. John,your sense?

@karinaph, I think turmeric helps keep my PMR at bay and helps with inflammation. That said, I would always run a supplement by my doctor or a pharmacist if I was taking other medications just to make sure there aren't any adverse interactions. Here's some information from Mayo Clinic that you may find helpful.

- (2018) Mayo Clinic Minute: Are there health benefits to taking turmeric?: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-are-there-health-benefits-to-taking-turmeric/
- (2020) Mayo Clinic Q and A: Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties may relieve arthritis pain: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-turmerics-anti-inflammatory-properties-may-relieve-arthritis-pain/

Thanks for providing these references John. Valuable.