Have you ever heard about Polymyalgia Rheumatica? If you are experiencing pain in your muscles and stiffness, there is a chance you are suffering from this disorder. But, to know how to properly deal with the disorder, you should learn more about the disorder in general.
The first thing you should do is simply talk to your doctor, as your doctor will be able to tell you more about the disorder, what to expect and how to deal with it. If you are interested you can check out best rheumatologist in Brisbane from arthritisCARE, or you can search for a more local option instead.
There are different arthritis types you should learn about
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
How much do you know about this disorder? This is an inflammatory disorder that will cause pain in your muscles, and stiffness, usually in the hips and shoulders. Signs and symptoms of this disorder will present themselves quickly and they will be a lot worse in the mornings. If you doubt that you have this disorder, make sure to talk to your doctor.
This condition will often affect people who are over 65, and while people who are under 50 are less likely to get the disorder, it is possible. Polymyalgia Rheumatica is related to another disorder that is called giant cell arteritis. However, this condition will cause pain in your jaw, scalp tenderness, problems with vision and headaches. You could have both disorders at the same time.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica are very straightforward, as they will cause pain in your muscles and often stiffness. It will affect both sides of your body:
- Pain or aches in your neck, hips, upper arms, shoulders, buttocks, thighs.
- Limited range of motion in the areas that are affected.
- Pain or stiffness in your elbows, knees and wrists.
- Stiffness in areas that are affected; especially if you have been inactive for some time, or the first thing in the morning.
There are also some more-general symptoms that might occur; such as:
- Mild fever.
- Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss.
- Depression or a general feeling of being unwell.
Know when to visit your doctor!
It is important that you understand that visiting your doctor is very important. As soon as you feel as if there might be something wrong, it is important that you talk to your doctor. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, schedule a consultation. You could also consider checking out a polymyalgia rheumatica specialist in Brisbane at ArthritisCare, or visit a local doctor instead.
Your doctor will tell you all about your perfect treatment option
Final word
There are many things to be taken into consideration before visiting your doctor, but you should never hesitate to schedule a consultation! Your doctor will do an examination and refer you to a professional who can help you with your issue. If you feel any kind of pain or stiffness, make sure to talk to a professional!
