How does polymyalgia rheumatica develop?
The cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is unknown. It is clear, however, that the immune system plays a critical role in the tissue damage caused by the disease. In polymyalgia rheumatica the immune system produces antibodies that attack the body, causing inflammation to develop in the blood vessels. Inflammation in blood vessel and artery walls leads to narrowing of the vessels. The blood vessels become leaky or clogged, disrupting blood flow to nerves, organs and other parts of the body. Inadequate blood supply to a particular tissue or organ can result in permanent damage such as loss of pulse points, blindness and pulmonary failure. Some theorize that polymyalgia rheumatica has a genetic factor. Because the disease is rarely found in people under the age of 50, it also may be linked to the aging process. What are the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica? Polymyalgia rheumatica causes severe pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders and hips. The stiffness is at its worst in the morning
