Polymyalgia rheumatica
Overview
Most people develop polymyalgia rheumatica after age 50. Sometimes this condition occurs with giant cell arteritis, a more serious condition that causes swelling, called inflammation, of the lining of the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually come on quickly and are worse in the morning. Symptoms include aches or pain, usually in the shoulders, neck and hips.
Treatments
Treatment is usually a low dose of a corticosteroid, such as prednisone, taken by mouth. Most people feel better within a day or two with treatment.
