Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) and Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) and Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) are rheumatic conditions that can cause severe pain and, left undiagnosed and untreated, GCA can cause blindness. Although the conditions can appear independently of each other, they are somtimes exhibited together. They usually strike people over 50 and are more commonly diagnosed in women. Currently, the only known effective treatment is long term use of corticosteroids.

PMR-GCA Scotland was formed in 2006 because of one person’s desire (Jean Miller) to get more information for herself. Since then it has developed into an organisation that supports both the medical community and sufferers of the condition.

Our principle objectives are to;

·         Provide support and information to people with the condition so they can self manage and access appropriate care services

·         Increase knowledge and awareness within the medical community and general population to support early diagnosis and intervention, facilitating the best possible outcome for the patient

Alongside setting up of the charity, Jean founded a monthly support group in Dundee. This has been appreciated by all who attend however the distance to travel is difficult for some and impossible for others. The charity is now attempting to organise one-off informal meetings across Scotland to see what else can be done. The first will be in Inverness in the new Alzheimer Scotland offices from 12.00 to 16.00 on Tuesday 12th November 2013. There is no fixed agenda; this is not a formal meeting but a way of getting together with others who are coping (or maybe not coping) and trying to figure out what is locally practical.

Whether you are a carer or patient, if you are interested, please do drop in but to help us with numbers, we would be grateful if you would phone our Helpline on 0300 777 5090 or our local contact on 01463 751 248, although just turning up is fine.

For more information please visit our website www.pmrandgca.org.uk or you can email us at info.scotland@pmrandgca.org.uk