Polymyalgia rheumatica (PRM) is a chronic ailment that is fairly common, especially in the elderly. The condition causes inflammation in the muscles and joints, particularly affecting the shoulders and hips. Some people that suffer from PRM can have up to an hour or more stiffness of their bodies in the morning after just waking up.
Approximately 52.5 out of 100,000 patients over the age of 50 suffer from PRM. 15 percent of those cases also present with giant cell arteritis (GCA). Although no causality has been proven definite, it is also an inflammatory condition, but much more serious, effecting small or medium arteries, and often leading to complications that can affect a patient’s ophthalmology, neurology, and pulmonary system.
The aetiology of PRM is yet unknown, so diagnosis is difficult and complex, often the result of presented symptoms and the exclusion of other ailments. Symptoms can include fatigue, limited range of movement, unintentional weight loss, malaise, low fevers, and many more. Because of the unknown cause, treatment consists only of alleviating a patient’s symptoms. Most commonly, PRM is treated with oral corticosteroids with supplements for vitamin D and calcium.
Care.Wallet is a powerful tool that has everything patients may need for successfully managing their health. If experiencing discomfort, pain or swelling in the neck, a patient can book an appointment with a few clicks directly in the App. If a patient needs a ride to the facility, Care.Wallet has got them covered with a medical transportation solution embedded. If it’s not possible to have an in-office visit, Care.Wallet allows for booking online appointments via Global Telehealth Exchange.
With Care.Wallet the patient doesn’t have to worry about preparing for the appointment, as all their previous medical records are securely stored in his Care.Wallet and can be shared with all members of their care team in real-time. On top of that, Care.Wallet allows for symptom recording and management. Armed with all necessary the information, medical professionals can better evaluate the health condition of the patient and diagnose the problem. Prescriptions and referrals can be easily managed within the App as well. Care.Wallet has a comprehensive feedback function, called “How Are You Feeling Today” (HAYFT) Cards, that allow the patient to stay in touch with their care provider and report any changes to their health condition. In addition, the Care.Circle functionality provides an opportunity for the patient to have health information exchanged between all care professionals involved in their treatment. Family and friends can be invited to join their Care.Circle as well to support the patient in their recovery and stay updated about their current health situation.
Care.Wallet is a powerful health management tool designed to offer a new improved standard of care and will improve the way healthcare works by putting patients in control of their health management. If you enjoyed this article, do take a look at our previous article Carotid Stenosis in the UK.
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