Polymyalgia rheumatica is a chronic condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders and hips. These symptoms tend to be worse after resting and may or may not be accompanied by a fever, weakness and weight loss. It can come on suddenly or take time to develop. While the exact cause of this condition is not known, there may be triggering factors.
Giant Cell Arteritis
While the exact link between the two diseases is still not well understood, polymyalgia rheumatica may occur alongside giant cell arteritis, states the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Giant cell arteritis is diagnosed when the arteries in the temples of the head become inflamed, which narrows the arteries. As this occurs, blood flow is restricted, which can lead to inflammation in the neck, shoulders and arms. The exact cause of giant cell arteritis is unknown, but may be caused by a malfunction in the immune system.
Infection
While the cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is still under investigation, it may be possible that it is triggered by an infection, according to MayoClinic.com. When there is an infection in the body, the immune system responds to destroy the foreign substances. For reasons that are not well understood, the immune system may over respond. In the case of polymyalgia rheumatic, the immune system may mistakenly attack tissues around the joints, causing pain and inflammation. An infection may be suspected, especially in cases where this disease develops abruptly.
Age, Gender and Genetics
The natural changes that occur with age may make a patient more susceptible to polymyalgia rheumatica. This condition occurs most often in white women between the ages of 70 and 80. There is also some speculation that there may be a genetic component, as this condition can run in families.
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