Tag: Polymyalgia rheumatica

While temporary stiffness can result from overexertion or inactivity, persistent and extreme stiffness can signal a serious underlying medical condition. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and effective management, including the serious disorders answering the question: What diseases cause extreme stiffness?

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory disorder that significantly impacts the daily life of adults over 50. This causes many to wonder: **is polymyalgia a critical illness?** Although PMR itself is rarely life-threatening, its potential complications and debilitating symptoms mean it should not be taken lightly.

The average age of diagnosis for temporal arteritis is around 70-75 years, with the condition almost exclusively affecting older adults. Knowing who is prone to temporal arteritis is crucial for early detection, as it can prevent serious complications like vision loss.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, many people with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis experience their worst joint pain and stiffness in the morning. This frustrating phenomenon, known as the “gel phenomenon,” is a key feature of several conditions and is often asked in relation to what autoimmune disease is worse in the morning.

In healthcare, a single acronym can have vastly different meanings, a fact that often causes confusion for patients and families. The acronym PMR is a prime example, referring to both an inflammatory rheumatic disease and a medical specialty that focuses on functional recovery. Understanding what is the full form of PMR is crucial for proper medical dialogue and care.