Polymyalgia Rheumatica Specialist
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Kiran Farheen, MD
Board-Certified Rheumatologist & Internist located in Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza, Katy, TX
Polymyalgia rheumatica is a rare inflammatory disorder that can be very responsive to treatment. Affecting only around 450,000 people in the United States, the disease most commonly affects females over 50. Kiran Farheen, MD, is a board-certified rheumatologist with her own practice in Katy, Texas. Here, she diagnoses and treats patients with polymyalgia rheumatica, helping alleviate and eventually eliminate symptoms entirely. Get back to feeling your best self — call the practice or use the online booking tool to schedule your appointment.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
What is polymyalgia rheumatica?
Polymyalgia rheumatica, or PMR, is a rare inflammatory disorder. There's no visible inflammation, which can make it hard to diagnose.
Fortunately, Dr. Farheen has over 10 years' experience in diagnosing and treating PMR. She starts you on a treatment plan to ease the symptoms and prevent them from worsening.
What are the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica?
PMR symptoms come on gradually or appear all at once and are related to inflammation. Pain can occur on both sides of the body, usually in the shoulders, neck, upper arms, hips, buttocks, thighs, wrists, elbows, and knees.
People who have the disorder typically experience aches, pains, or stiffness in at least two of these areas. Symptoms are usually worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
Some people also experience more general symptoms, including:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
- Mild fever
Symptoms tend to last around a week with treatment or up to a year with none, and it's common to have relapses. Dr. Farheen manages the inflammation and eases the pain, so you can enjoy regular activity again, sooner.
What causes polymyalgia rheumatica?
While medical professionals are uncertain of PMR's exact cause, most cases have common factors, including:
Age
It's rare for people under 50 to develop polymyalgia rheumatica, and most common in those aged 70 and over.
Sex
Females are twice as likely as men to develop the condition.
Race
Polymyalgia rheumatica is most common in Caucasians in North America and Europe.
Genetics
Certain gene variations may make you more likely to develop the condition.
Environmental exposure
Often, new cases of polymyalgia rheumatica occur seasonally, which leads to many health professionals believing that viral exposure may play a part. However, no virus has been linked to the disease.
Some also believe polymyalgia rheumatica to be an autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the body.
What is the treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica?
Treatment for PMR focuses on reducing inflammation and alleviating stiffness, aches, and pains. It may include anti-inflammatory medicines, like corticosteroids, and regular exercise to maintain joint flexibility.
With the right treatment, polymyalgia rheumatica needn't affect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Kiran Farheen, MD, today — call the practice or book online.
