Question 1

What is polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and hips. It is caused by immune system dysfunction that triggers widespread inflammation in the muscles and surrounding tissues. The Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures inflammation levels that are characteristically elevated in this condition.

Question 2

What causes polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica is caused by immune system dysfunction that triggers widespread inflammation in the muscles and surrounding tissues. The exact trigger remains unknown, but researchers believe a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors may activate the immune response. This inflammatory process particularly affects the shoulder and hip girdle muscles, causing the characteristic pain and stiffness that typically worsens in the morning or after periods of rest.

Question 3

What is the best test for polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

The Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is the most important test for polymyalgia rheumatica because it detects elevated inflammation levels that are characteristic of this condition. The ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube, with faster settling indicating higher inflammation in the body. Most people with polymyalgia rheumatica show significantly elevated ESR levels, typically above 40 mm/hour. This test is essential not only for supporting the initial diagnosis when combined with your symptoms, but also for monitoring how well your treatment is working, as ESR levels typically decrease as the condition improves with therapy.

Question 4

When should I get tested for polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you are over 50 years old and experience sudden onset of pain and stiffness in your shoulders, neck, or hips that is worse in the morning and lasts more than 30 minutes. You should also consider testing if you notice difficulty lifting your arms above your head, trouble getting out of bed or rising from a chair, or unexplained fatigue and low-grade fever accompanying muscle symptoms. Early testing is important because prompt treatment can quickly relieve symptoms and prevent complications, while untreated inflammation can lead to more serious issues like temporal arteritis affecting your vision.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

The main symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica include severe muscle pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, upper arms, hips, and thighs that develops quickly over days to weeks. You might notice morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, difficulty lifting your arms to brush your hair or put on a jacket, and trouble getting out of bed or chairs. Many people also experience fatigue, low-grade fever, unintentional weight loss, and a general feeling of being unwell. The pain and stiffness typically affect both sides of your body equally and can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities.

Question 6

Who is at risk for polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica primarily affects adults over age 50, with the highest risk occurring in people between 70 and 80 years old. Women are about two to three times more likely to develop this condition than men. People of Northern European or Scandinavian descent have a higher risk compared to other ethnic groups. If you have a family history of polymyalgia rheumatica or related inflammatory conditions, your risk increases, suggesting a genetic component to the disease.

Question 7

What happens if polymyalgia rheumatica is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If polymyalgia rheumatica is left untreated, the persistent inflammation can severely impact your quality of life and lead to serious complications. Ongoing pain and stiffness can result in limited mobility, muscle wasting from inactivity, and increased risk of falls and injuries. About 10-20% of people with untreated polymyalgia rheumatica develop giant cell arteritis (temporal arteritis), a related condition that causes inflammation in the blood vessels and can lead to permanent vision loss or stroke. The chronic inflammation can also increase your risk of cardiovascular problems and osteoporosis, especially if later treated with high-dose corticosteroids for an extended period.

Question 8

Can polymyalgia rheumatica be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica cannot be diagnosed with a blood test alone, but blood work plays a crucial supporting role in the diagnostic process. The diagnosis is primarily based on your symptoms, physical examination, and response to treatment, combined with blood test results showing elevated inflammation markers. The ESR test and C-reactive protein (CRP) test typically show significantly elevated levels in people with polymyalgia rheumatica. Your doctor will also use blood tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or thyroid disorders, making blood work an essential part of reaching the correct diagnosis.

Question 9

How is polymyalgia rheumatica treated?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica is treated primarily with corticosteroids, typically starting with prednisone at a low to moderate dose of 10-20 mg daily. Most people experience dramatic improvement in symptoms within just a few days of starting treatment. Your doctor will gradually reduce the steroid dose over 12 to 24 months based on your symptoms and blood test results showing decreased inflammation. Because long-term steroid use can cause side effects, your doctor may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements to protect your bones and monitor you regularly for complications. Some people may benefit from additional medications like methotrexate to help reduce the steroid dose needed.

Question 10

How can I prevent polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

Polymyalgia rheumatica cannot be prevented because the exact cause and triggers are not fully understood. However, you can take steps to maintain overall health and potentially reduce inflammation in your body through lifestyle choices. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids may help support immune system balance. Regular moderate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep all contribute to reducing chronic inflammation. If you have a family history of the condition or are in the higher-risk age group, staying aware of early symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can help ensure early diagnosis and treatment.

Question 11

What can I do at home for polymyalgia rheumatica?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can complement your medical treatment by staying gently active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or stretching to prevent stiffness and maintain muscle strength. Applying heat to sore muscles through warm baths or heating pads can help ease pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Eating a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon may help reduce inflammation. Getting adequate rest while avoiding prolonged inactivity is important, and using assistive devices like grab bars or reaching tools can make daily tasks easier during flare-ups. Always work closely with your healthcare provider and report any changes in symptoms or side effects from medication.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Polymyalgia Rheumatica Blood Test

What is Polymyalgia rheumatica?

What causes polymyalgia rheumatica?

What is the best test for polymyalgia rheumatica?

When should I get tested for polymyalgia rheumatica?

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