Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory rheumatic disease and, like rheumatoid arthritis, occurs in multiple parts of the body. In medical terms, it is also known as 'polymyalgia rheumatica'. Literally, this means muscle pain in several places that resembles rheumatism.

What is the cause of polymyalgia rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica belongs to the autoimmune diseases. The body, as it were, turns against itself. The precise cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is not known. It is true that the disease almost only occurs in people over 50 years of age.

Moreover, polymyalgia rheumatica occurs twice as often in women as in men. In general, polymyalgia rheumatica also resolves again, although this takes two to three years.

In some people, polymyalgia rheumatica is permanent (chronic), with quiet and active phases of the disease alternating.

How can polymyalgia rheumatica be recognised?

Polymyalgia rheumatica is characterised by pain and stiffness in muscles throughout the body. In particular, the muscles around the neck, shoulders, and hips are most affected. This pain and stiffness are usually most severe at night and in the morning.

Fever, reduced energy, weight loss, and a depressed mood are also symptoms that occur with polymyalgia rheumatica.

In practice, fibromyalgia and polymyalgia rheumatica are often confused.

Fibromyalgia stands for connective tissue (fibro), muscle (myo), and pain (algia). It therefore does not only concern the muscles, as with polymyalgia rheumatica, but also the tendons and ligaments of the body. Moreover, fibromyalgia is not an inflammatory disease and therefore does not need to be treated with anti-inflammatories.

How is polymyalgia rheumatica diagnosed?

If polymyalgia rheumatica is suspected, the GP will order blood tests. Particular attention will be paid to inflammatory markers in the blood and any anaemia. To rule out other conditions, the GP may consider an X-ray or MRI scan.

If additional tests do not demonstrate other conditions, the possible diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica will be made based on age, pattern of complaints, and blood values.

How is polymyalgia rheumatica treated?

The treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica is twofold. To combat pain and inflammation, the GP will prescribe medication. To address muscle complaints and stiffness, it is wise to start exercise therapy. It is best to do this under the guidance of a physiotherapist.