PMR is a complicated disease with many complex symptoms. An accurate diagnosis must exclude many other potential diseases. Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) are considered the treatment of choice. Patients have an excellent prognosis, although exacerbations may occur if steroids are tapered too rapidly, and relapse is common.
While there have been no major studies on the relationship between inflammatory foods (e.g., wheat products) and PMR, many patients have reported that by following a paleo or gluten-free diet and exercising, they have been able to control their symptoms and taper off the steroids in a period of up to 1 year. In general, avoiding foods that cause inflammation and gastrointestinal problems can sometimes alleviate fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia affects about 2% of the U.S. population, with women older than 50 years being more susceptible to the disorder than men.
