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CRP levels in polymyalgia rheumatica

Posted , 9 users are following.

maria49950
maria49950

CRP level in my blood tests came in.  They are 187 mg/l. Dr says high inflammation present. Started 20mg Preds on Monday.  Now pain has become a dull ache but feeling lethargic, weak and generally ill.  is this the way of this condition.

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • rachel24455
    rachel24455 maria49950

    Posted

    So sorry Maria but yes, this is it! Many more experienced commentators on here, but for me, the fatigue went after 6 months - or I learnt to pace my day. I think I'm back to 75% of where I was 8 months ago - but couldn't have done it without the support of this forum. And the new puppy! I was 51 when diagnosed and could not believe it. I now realise I have other autoimmune diseases, or its all one big auto immune diseas.

    Really recommend the book, and taking advice from fellow sufferers. 

    YOU WILL GET BETTER!

     

    • maria49950
      maria49950 rachel24455

      Posted

      Thanks Rachel.  I was hale and hearty four weeks ago but felt very stiff in my muscles so decided at age 67 I needed to do some gentle exercise.  Started callenetics managed 4 class s easily then WAM.  Two weeks ago went to a chiropractor to sort out what I thought was a pinched nerve.   Pain got worse.  Dr has diagnosed PMR and on 20mg preds. pain now dull ache though still battle getting up from sitting or lying position but soooooo tired.  Thanks for the encouragement.
  • EileenH
    EileenH maria49950

    Posted

    Give it all a chance - but yes, I'm afraid the feeling ill bit often takes quite some time to resolve - it is due to the autoimmune disorder that causes the inflammation. The pred only wipes up the inflammation and doesn't really do anything to the underlying illness. Nothing does. The fatigue must be managed by pacing and resting and learning how to live with the gorilla of PMR.

  • celia14153
    celia14153 maria49950

    Posted

    Hi Maria, it took a few days before I got the benefit of Pred. I went up to 25mg for three or four, then 22.5mg, then back to 20mg. Fatigue levels vary from day to day, and if I know I'll with my grandson I ensure I have a relaxed day afterwards. I'm also learning how to pace - it's so tempting to do what you used to when you're on a good day, but no good comes of it. Ironing has to wait. Rachel's right. You do adjust and we will get better 😄

  • adette01750
    adette01750 maria49950

    Posted

    Hi Maria,

    Im sorry for your diagnosis, yes I was 53 last year on my diagnosis of PMR, it was a gp that diagnosed it and as the hospital(s) did not agree initially, other investigations were done and hey presto, x3 auto immune disorders finally confirmed, PMR, sjogrens and Hashimotos auto immune thyroiditis.

    The fatigue and pains seem to be common in all these diseases, and now with the prednisolone, my pain is under control mostly, but the pain of the bursitis of my left hip not under control, fatigue is the most debilitating symptom I think at the moment.

    A year ago I was on 30mg of prednisolone now on 8.5 mg, so I don't feel too unwell, apart from side effects of the Plaquenil and azathioprine, but they are improving, so there is hope for you as you control your life activities and reduce medicine levels.

    The trick is to pace, on a good day don't go crazy, still rest and do things at a slower pace, as you will just crash and burn again, I know it all sounds like pampering, feeling you are prescious, but it is a must, you have to come first for probably the first time in your life, but if you don't you won't be any good for anything or anybody.

    Do take care!!!

  • Michdonn
    Michdonn maria49950

    Posted

    maria49950, came down with PMR about a year ago, notice some relief on 20 mg of Predinisone, but took about 2 weeks before I was PMR pain free. Let the meds try and control the symptoms. I will not reduce if I am not PMR pain free. Good luck on your journey, I have a smile on my face moving forward.🙂

  • Anhaga
    Anhaga maria49950

    Posted

    Maria, just be aware, as the pred helps you feel better, that you must continue to get enough rest.  Don't make the mistake so many of us do in the beginning of trying to do too much on a day we feel well, and then paying for it the next day!

  • Michdonn
    Michdonn maria49950

    Posted

    Yes maria49950, pace yourself, listen to your body. When PMR pain free, do a little, maybe a walk, rest and walk back. When that is comfortable increase a little. I tried to do the same walk for a few days, making sure I was not over doing it before increasing. Good luck on your journey. Keep smiling! 🙂

  • pauline36422
    pauline36422 maria49950

    Posted

    yes maria   you are quite normal   with the feeling you have,  but dont worry it can only get better.   i was one of the  lucky ones   with no  problems at all with pred.  apart fron bleary eyes. and  a bit of  forgetfulness.

    i am on my second journey  down to 3 mg  after a couple of    flares,  but i am  feeling  good  generaly

     

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