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Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is a condition that causes widespread inflammation (swelling) of muscles. This results in pain, tenderness and stiffness, especially in your neck, shoulders, hips and thighs.

PMR occurs when white blood cells – which usually protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses – attack the lining of the joints by mistake. What exactly causes the cells to act this way is unclear. However, in some cases of PMR the person has had a flu-like illness in the last few weeks.

PMR affects around 3 in every 10,000 people over 50 in the UK every year – it is extremely rare in anyone under the age of 50. Both men and women can get PMR, although the illness is three times more likely to occur in women.  

PMR can’t be prevented, but the symptoms are often easily and simply controlled with medication. Most people make a full recovery within a year or two.

• Symptoms
• Complications
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Causes

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