What should you know about polymyalgia rheumatica and rheumatoid arthritis?

Polymyalgia rheumatica commonly causes aching and marked stiffness around the shoulders, neck and hips, particularly after rest. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune joint disease that often causes persistent swelling, tenderness and stiffness in joints such as the hands, wrists and feet, though patterns vary. Muscle aching or difficulty lifting the arms does not by itself distinguish the two. Examination, symptom timing, blood tests and sometimes imaging help a clinician assess the pattern and rule out other causes. New symptoms should not be self-labelled from a symptom list.

Arrange medical review if stiffness lasts, returns or limits dressing, rising from a chair or walking. Note affected areas, swelling, fatigue, fever, weight change and how symptoms behave after rest. Take medicines only as prescribed and report unwanted effects rather than changing the dose yourself. Once inflammation is being managed, [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) may support safe mobility and strength. A record of symptoms can make follow-up more useful.

Seek prompt care for a hot, very swollen joint, severe new weakness, fever with rapidly worsening symptoms, or inability to walk or use an arm. New visual symptoms, a severe headache or jaw pain while chewing require urgent assessment because they can signal a serious inflammatory complication. Persistent [morning joint stiffness](/symptoms/morning-joint-stiffness/) or [muscle weakness](/symptoms/muscle-weakness/) should be evaluated in context.

Which features point toward polymyalgia rheumatica or rheumatoid arthritis? What tests are appropriate? How will treatment be monitored? What symptoms require same-day help?