How common is permanent remission?

Great question.

Yes, but we are still alive, how can we know?

Is there such a thing as permanent remission? I have been dealing with PMR and GCA for almost six years with no end in sight.

Personally speaking, I'd say extremely rare. However, it can happen. So far it has for my broth-in-law. He's been in remission for approx a year.

Personally speaking, I'd say extremely rare. However, it can happen. So far it has for my broth-in-law. He's been in remission for approx a year. You will get more help with your question on the PMR forum. Face book.

I find it hard to believe that a Facebook group would be better informed than people in this MayoClinic group. I have to be up front and admit that personally I loathe FaceBook.

Both have been helpful!

That's fair enough everyone has their choices. I was with the HealthUnlock forum for a few years and learnt a lot. The Facebook group is just that. PMR and GCA comments only.
I joined the LDN group (Naltrexone) to see if this drug is any good for weaning off Pred.

Sorry you feel that way about Facebook bc the support group there is significantly helpful.

I've had 2 occurrences of PMR. The first time it took me 3 and half years to taper off of prednisone and the PMR went into remission for 6 years. The second time with PMR, it took me 1 and half years to taper off of prednisone and the PMR went into remission again in 2018. I think lifestyle, diet and exercise play a part in helping to keep PMR in remission. It's just my opinion but I think you always live with the possibility that it will return.