What Is Polymyositis?
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
3. Muscle Weakness
Perhaps the most characteristic symptom of polymyositis is that the patient will experience fluctuating weakness in their muscles. The weakness will start to develop slowly and will be found on both sides of the body (symmetrical).
The muscles most likely to be affected are those that are closest to the torso (proximal muscles). This means the hips, neck, shoulders, thighs, upper arms, and upper back. Patients with the condition will find it difficult to make movements like walking upstairs, standing from a seated position, and carrying objects. In a rare number of cases, the patient will also have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
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