Hi - I was diagnosed about 8 weeks ago with PMR, first by my retiring PCP, who was able to help hand me off to a new PCP and shoulder specialist. The new PCP and Ortho worked to get me into a rheumatologist as quickly as possible, along with CRP and set-rate test, which supported the initial diagnosis. I started with a Prednisolone pack, and when I was done with it for a few hours, the pain came roaring back, so my PCP put me on 5 mg prednisone, and a few days later, we upped it to 10 mg. Finally, the meeting with the Rheumatologist produced a 20 mg script of prednisone, which increased a few days later to 25 mg due to unsatisfactory results from the 20 mg. Rheumatologist gave me instructions to reduce over several upcoming two-week periods until I go back in to see her.

I am anxious to learn more about this disease and other patients' experiences. I still have some pain, particularly if I am over 24 hours since my last dose, but nothing nearly like what was the case a few weeks ago! So I ask, "Is this normal?" "Should I say something now?" or "be patient!"

THANK YOU FOR THIS FORUM!!