PMR Flare

Posted by judyal @judyal, 3 days ago

Haven't had a flare of PMR since 2019 but won't forget the pain. I think I'm having one now, but couldn't get an appt w/Rheum. PA for another week. (already been 4wks.) I'm sure they will do blood work to confirm. It seems to travel and affect arms, lower back, thighs/hips and other major muscles so I'm sure it has returned. I've been applying heat in the morning, but it only helps a little and even getting out of bed is a struggle. Anyone use OTC meds to help w/pain and if so, which ones?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.

Try Tylenol for Arthritis, my Rehum put me on it . 🤞

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Ibuprofen and naproxen are OTC and might help with the inflammation.
I usually take NSAIDs with a meal.

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Profile picture for tweetypie13 @tweetypie13

Try Tylenol for Arthritis, my Rehum put me on it . 🤞

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Thank you!

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Profile picture for seniormed @seniormed

Ibuprofen and naproxen are OTC and might help with the inflammation.
I usually take NSAIDs with a meal.

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Okay, thanks.

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Profile picture for seniormed @seniormed

Ibuprofen and naproxen are OTC and might help with the inflammation.
I usually take NSAIDs with a meal.

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Hi, seniormed! You haven't said if you are currently taking prednisone, too. I have read that NSAIDS and prednisone should be separated by about 6 hours. Talk with your doctor and/or pharmacist.
https://www.bing.com/search?q=taking+nsaids+with+prednisone&FORM=R5FD6
Some research warns not take NSAIDS together with pred at all. If I am in a lot of pain (especially when on a tapering dose), I will take ibuprofin with a 6-hour gap with no ill effects.

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Can you call in to request a prednisone 6 pack from either your rheumy or your primary care? If that knocks out the pain it probably is a flare. Since you've had a history of PMR I would think they could get that filled for you.

Good luck!

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Profile picture for terrym @terrym

Can you call in to request a prednisone 6 pack from either your rheumy or your primary care? If that knocks out the pain it probably is a flare. Since you've had a history of PMR I would think they could get that filled for you.

Good luck!

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Exactly. I had the same situation a couple of years ago. The acute/urgent care NP was happy to start me back on prednisone via video visit and obtained an urgent electronic consultation with the rheumatologist via the medical records system. Best wishes for speedy improvement.

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