Persistent Muscle Pain and Stiffness
One of the most notable signs of polymyalgia rheumatica is ongoing muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, neck, and hips. This discomfort is typically worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity, often lasting more than 30 minutes after waking. Many individuals describe it as an aching pain that makes it difficult to perform daily tasks, such as getting dressed or climbing stairs.
Unlike other musculoskeletal conditions, the pain in polymyalgia rheumatica is not isolated to one joint or muscle group. Instead, it affects larger muscle areas symmetrically, which can be a helpful clue in distinguishing it from other conditions. Over time, if untreated, the stiffness can become more severe and interfere with mobility and independence.
Sudden Onset of Symptoms
Unlike many chronic conditions that develop gradually, polymyalgia rheumatica often presents suddenly. People may wake up one day with intense stiffness and pain that seemingly appeared overnight. This abrupt onset can be alarming, especially for those who were previously active and healthy.
While the exact cause of this sudden development is still under investigation, researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors—such as viral infections—may play a role. If you notice a rapid change in how your body feels, especially if it’s accompanied by difficulty moving your arms or legs, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider promptly.
Fatigue and General Malaise
Fatigue is a common but often overlooked symptom of polymyalgia rheumatica. People frequently report feeling tired even after a full night’s rest, and this exhaustion can persist throughout the day. This type of fatigue isn’t just physical; it can also affect concentration and mood.
In addition to fatigue, individuals may experience a general sense of not feeling well, often described as malaise. This can include:
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Unintended weight loss
These systemic symptoms suggest that the body is experiencing widespread inflammation, which is consistent with the nature of polymyalgia rheumatica. Addressing these signs early can help manage inflammation before it leads to more severe complications.
Limited Range of Motion
As the condition progresses, polymyalgia rheumatica can lead to a limited range of motion, particularly in the shoulders and hips. This restriction occurs due to a combination of pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the surrounding tissues. Everyday movements such as reaching overhead, tying shoelaces, or turning your head can become increasingly difficult.
In many cases, this limited mobility is misattributed to aging or overuse injuries, delaying proper diagnosis. Recognizing this loss of movement as a potential symptom of polymyalgia rheumatica is key. Physical therapy may help maintain flexibility, but medical treatment is typically necessary to address the underlying inflammation.
Morning Stiffness That Lingers
Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes is a hallmark sign of polymyalgia rheumatica. This symptom can be particularly disruptive, making it hard to start the day. While mild stiffness is common with aging, the prolonged and intense nature of stiffness in this condition sets it apart.
Individuals may find that it takes hours before they can comfortably move around, which can significantly impact daily routine and productivity. Over time, untreated inflammation may contribute to joint damage or related conditions such as giant cell arteritis, a serious vascular disorder that sometimes occurs alongside polymyalgia rheumatica.
Common signs that morning stiffness may point to something more serious include:
- Stiffness lasting more than an hour
- Worsening pain with rest
- Reduced ability to perform basic tasks in the morning
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