Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)
The symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) usually develop rapidly. In a few cases, though, symptoms can develop more gradually.
Muscle pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms of PMR. The pain and stiffness can range from moderate to severe.
In PMR, the muscles in the neck and shoulder are usually affected, although some people also experience pain and stiffness in their lower back, hips and thighs. You may also experience tenderness and pain in your upper arms.
The stiffness can be worse after waking up.
This stiffness will usually only last for 30 to 60 minutes, and will improve when you become active. The pain may be more persistent.
An estimated 40% of people with PMR will have additional symptoms, including:
- mild fever, with a temperature of 37°-38°C (98.6°F-100.4°F),
- depression,
- fatigue,
- loss of appetite, and
- weight loss.
Giant cell arteritis (GCA)
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) can cause a wide range of symptoms. Most people who have GCA will not have all the symptoms.
The most common symptom of GCA is a headache that doesn't go away (a continuous headache). The pain is usually around the temple or the eyes. Painkillers, for example paracetamol, are usually not effective in treating the pain. Many people with GCA have described the headache as unlike any type of headache they have experienced before.
Other common symptoms of GCA include:
- mild fever, with a temperature of 37°-38°C (98.6°F-100.4°F),
- a feeling of being generally unwell,
- loss of appetite, and
- weight loss.
An estimated 50% of people with GCA will have pain in their jaw when chewing food.
About 20% of people with GCA experience loss of vision. Usually, only one eye is affected. People with GCA have described their vision loss as like having a shade placed over their eye. If it's not treated, vision can be lost in the other eye within one to two weeks.
When to seek medical advice
You should see your GP as soon as possible if you have a continuous headache. A ‘normal’ headache will usually resolve within four hours, so a headache that lasts longer than four hours should be regarded as continuous.
It is particularly important that you seek immediate medical advice if you have a continuous headache and you do not have a history of having continuous headaches. Visit your GP or telephone NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Symptoms of muscle pain and stiffness that persist for longer than two to three days also require investigation. If you experience periods of muscle stiffness, make an appointment to see your GP.
