"Diagnosis of Polymyalgia Rheumatica."

In June 2018 I suffered stiffness and pain in shoulders,hips and leg muscles. I had difficulty getting out of a chair,climbing stairs,turning over in bed and needed help to get out of bed and dress myself. This condition had developed over a period of only a few weeks.

I saw my GP and he explained that it could be Polymyalgia Rheumatica and that a blood test would confirm this. The test was done and the following morning he telephoned me at home to say that the test was positive and that I needed to start treatment immediately, which meant taking a high dose of steroids which would be reduced gradually over a period of 12 to 18 months. I was alarmed and upset but he explained that the treatment is very effective and that I would be monitored regularly throughout the treatment.

After 2 days I felt very much better and the stiffness and pain had almost gone. I was able to go on a holiday the following week which I had almost cancelled. I had a telephone appointment with my GP whilst I was away to check that I was responding to the treatment with no adverse effects.

I am now on a low maintenance dose of the steroids and the stiffness has not returned.

I have been very impressed by the way my GP has dealt with the situation and feel that I am being well cared for.