Polymyalgia Rheumatica Symptom Checker

Polymyalgia Rheumatica Quick Quiz

Muscle stiffness and fatigue can sometimes feel like normal signs of aging. But when they keep coming back or get worse, they might be pointing to something more. This short quiz can help you explore whether your symptoms could be related to polymyalgia rheumatica.

Ask yourself the following:

• Do you wake up with stiff shoulders, hips, or neck?
• Does it take a long time to get moving in the morning?
• Have you noticed pain in both sides of your body, especially your upper arms or thighs?
• Do you feel more tired than usual, even after resting?
• Have you had trouble lifting your arms or standing up from a chair?
• Do you sometimes feel low energy or slightly feverish?
• Are your symptoms worse in the morning or after resting?

Take a moment to reflect on each one. Be honest,  this is just for you.

If you answered “yes” to one or more, your symptoms may be linked to polymyalgia rheumatica. Talk to a healthcare professional to learn more.

Note: This is not a replacement for diagnosis. Only a medical professional can confirm what’s truly going on.

If these questions sound familiar, try the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Symptom Checker to get a better understanding of what your symptoms could mean.

What Is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Polymyalgia rheumatica is a health condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, mostly in the shoulders, neck, and hips. The pain often feels worse in the morning or after resting. It doesn’t affect the muscles directly, but it causes inflammation around the joints and tissues nearby.

Many people notice that everyday tasks, like getting dressed, climbing stairs, or lifting their arms, become harder than usual. The stiffness can last for hours and may come with fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell.

Polymyalgia rheumatica mostly affects people over the age of 50. It’s more common in women than men and tends to appear suddenly, even in those who were healthy before.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Polymyalgia rheumatica often starts with pain and stiffness that you can’t easily explain. It usually affects both sides of the body and can make simple movements feel harder than they used to.

You might notice:

• Stiffness in the shoulders, hips, neck, or upper arms
• Pain that’s worse in the morning or after sitting still
• Trouble lifting your arms or getting out of bed
• General tiredness or low energy
• Mild fever or feeling slightly unwell
• Sudden weight loss or a drop in appetite

These symptoms can show up quickly or build over time. They may seem mild at first but can interfere with your daily routine if they don’t improve.

What Causes Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

The exact cause of polymyalgia rheumatica isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be linked to the body’s immune system. In some people, the immune system may overreact and cause inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, even when there’s no injury or clear reason.

Experts think that both genetics and aging might play a role. Some people may be more likely to develop it due to family history or changes in the immune system as they grow older. In rare cases, symptoms can start after a viral infection, but not always.

How Is Polymyalgia Rheumatica Diagnosed?

Diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica isn’t always easy, especially since its symptoms can be similar to other conditions.

Doctors usually start with:

• A physical exam to check your range of motion and areas of pain
• Blood tests that look for signs of inflammation
• A review of your present and past medical history (PMH) and how long you’ve had symptoms

There’s no single test that confirms it. That’s why it’s important to describe your symptoms clearly, when they started, how they feel, and how they affect your daily life.

How Is Polymyalgia Rheumatica Treated?

Treatment usually focuses on reducing inflammation and improving movement so you can get back to your normal activities. Some people feel better within days, while others need longer support to manage symptoms over time.

Helpful steps may include:

• Taking it easy during flare-ups
• Doing light stretches or gentle movements to stay flexible
• Avoiding heavy lifting or activities that worsen the pain

It’s important to follow a plan that works for your body. A doctor can help you understand what’s safe and what might make symptoms worse.

If you still have questions, use the polymyalgia rheumatica symptom checker to get quick insights and better understand your symptoms.