Causes and Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatic: Home Remedies and Diet

Polymyalgia rheumatica is inflammation of the muscles resulting in pain and stiffness. The condition affects important muscles like muscles of the shoulder joint and the legs. This condition is more frequently observed in individuals over the age of 65 years, however can be found in younger people of the age of 50 years.

The condition has a rapid progression and the symptoms start manifestation within a couple of weeks of the onset.

What Causes Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Little is known about the etiological factors that lead to the onset of this disorder, however there are certain predisposing factors that may contribute to the development of this condition,

• Genetics play a vital role in the development of this condition. Research has shown that some genes can play a major role in making the individual susceptible to developing this condition
• There can be some form of environmental factors that can trigger an episode of polymyalgia. These trigger factors may include virus or seasonal changes.

Experts have suggested that polymyalgia is often found to be associated with another disease referred to as the giant cell arteritis.

Reports suggest that over 30% of people having polymyalgia also complain of giant cell arteritis while half of the people with giant cell arteritis complain of symptoms of polymyalgia.

Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Some of the common symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include the following,

• Pain in the shoulders which is often the first symptom, which is followed by pain in the upper arms, neck, hip, thighs and buttocks.
• Pain is followed by stiffness which is more apparent during morning or following a long phase of inactivity.
• The range of movement of the affected muscles is considerably reduced.
• Other symptoms may include low grade fever with generalized weakness and fatigue. Loss of appetite, excessive weight loss and depression are some of the other symptoms
• When seen in combination with giant cell arteritis, the condition is associated with symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, visual disorders and tenderness in the scalp.

Diet and Home Remedies for Management of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Here are some simple diet and home remedies tips to deal with this condition,

• Ensure that your diet is rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid meat and dairy products completely. Salt restriction in the diet is mandatory, as it helps regulate blood pressure and prevents fluid buildup in the body.
• Regular exercise is essential to maintain a healthy weight and keep the bones and muscles strong and active.
• Homeopathic drugs like Gelsemium and Rhus-Tox are considered very useful in the treatment and management of polymyalgia Rheumatica. The low potency dosage is recommended and should be repeated multiple times during the day.
• As the disease progresses, it is recommended to use assistive devices such as reaching aids, carts, grab bars in order to prevent fall or injuries.