Unfortunately in my experience over the last 1 1/2 years with PMR there are many different directions to take. I started with my primary who detected the symptoms. He started me on 40 of prednisone. The pain went away within 4 days which was a huge relief. Then the side effects of the prednisone kicked in. After about 6 months of working with him it was time to see a Rheumatologist. It's soo important to find one you respect and trust and then communicate with them.
My labs showed elevated IL-6 , sed rates and CRP. We need to know and understand these tests. He has tapered me down to 5 mg prednisone. SLOWLY. Thank God. I was miserable on prednisone. Plus I lost about 50 percent of my hair. At the same time to protect me from going blind with GCA he started me on Actemera. I haven't really had side effects except I've struggled a lot with incredible fatigue. Which may have been the prednisone. All this to say, we're doing the best we can with a lot of grey areas that take patience. The challenge for me is to continue to educate myself as best I can, work with my doctor. Try to stay positive, as much as I can do the things. I love. Don't overdo, trust God. Stay in touch with friends. Going to spend some time in the sun this winter. Remember you'll get 50 different opinions for each of your questions, don't stop asking but come back to those you trust the most. Hopefully a spouse , doctor, close friends.