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PMR Dosages and Managing Symptoms

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jun 1 1:21pm | Replies (445)

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@valerie6062

Hi, You and I have a bit in common. I am 80 years old and was diagnosed with GCA last August. I had PMR diagnosed late 2015 and my blood meds showed remission about 2 years later. I forgot [almost] that I had had PMR.
Now with GCA, prednisone has given me a cocktail of side effects. My rheumatologist says no to prednisone being the cause but for me , the coincidence is just too much. I have sensory neuropathy which means my feet are partially numb , so I walk very carefully. I have also suddenly developed Atrial fibrillation . I have never had any suggestion of heart disease until now. My main source of pain is a lumbar stenosis. Yes, of course I have the chipmunk face . All of this has changed my life. Mostly I just want to stay at home. A fair bit of fatigue involved.
My current dose is 11mg down from 50 over several months. I see rheumatologist next Thursday. Eye specialist the following week and then cardiologist mid July.
I'm trying to keep positive and will Google possible dietary changes which may help. Thankyou for sharing your circumstances. Valerie.

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Replies to "Hi, You and I have a bit in common. I am 80 years old and was..."

@valerie6062 Yes, we certainly do, Valerie. It completely changed my life too. So, you have the old moon face...but no wrinkles, I bet. I put on quite a bit of weight (understatement) and have lost 90 pounds..now I have some wrinkles.
It is quite a journey, but I'm so thankful you were diagnosed, and you have your eyesight! I agree with you and so does my rheumatologist, that my neuropathy, myopathy etc. are due to 3 years of pred. But don't let it affect your spirit. I've managed to use my energy only for things I enjoy...it is sort of like being an heiress without the money! Doing something I love, different for all people, keeps your sense of purpose. I used to crochet, knit, and quilt...that is out now because I was not properly diagnosed. But my days are full and I still paint watercolors, listen to books and talk to friends. Thank heaven for Zoom. This Thursday, I am leaving on a trip to Nova Scotia to see my granddaughter graduate from high school. It will be slow-paced and such a pleasure and joy to see them. Then I will visit friends in Maine, again slow-paced but joyful. I'll be back in three weeks, so please keep in touch with me. It is a difficult journey made easier by not walking alone and keeping positive. You are brave. I was only diagnosed after losing sight in one eye, but I can see fine enough!
My only advice is to taper slowly. I'm on 3mg per day now and will reduce it by another half milligram on my return. I'm also on an Actemra pen injection weekly and have been doing that for three years. Are you in the States? At this stage and lower, you will also find you are fatigued at times; that is when you stop and rest. Listen to your body.
My best to you...Marilyn💞