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Warning-sign checks

Polymyalgia rheumatica: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for sudden loss of vision, new facial drooping, arm weakness, difficulty speaking, or other possible stroke symptoms.

    Do not drive yourself for emergency assessment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent same-day medical help if you have a new headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing, or temporary visual disturbance.

    These symptoms may indicate GCA and should not wait for a routine appointment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop persistent pain and morning stiffness in both shoulders or hips, particularly if you are over 50.

    Similar symptoms can have several causes, so an assessment is needed rather than self-diagnosis.

The article also says

During treatment, contact your usual healthcare service if symptoms return, become harder to control, or do not improve as expected.

Also report possible steroid side effects such as unusual thirst, frequent urination, repeated infections, major mood changes, or new vision difficulties.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Polymyalgia rheumatica. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.