Polymyositis in older adults typically shows up as **progressive muscle weakness**, especially affecting the muscles closest to the center of the body, like those in the shoulders, hips, and thighs. This weakness usually develops gradually and makes everyday activities such as climbing stairs, rising from a chair, or lifting objects increasingly difficult. The muscle weakness is often symmetrical, meaning it affects both sides of the body roughly equally.
In addition to muscle weakness, older adults with polymyositis may experience **muscle pain or tenderness**, although pain is not always prominent. The muscles might feel sore or achy, and this discomfort can sometimes worsen with activity. Some people also notice stiffness or difficulty moving their limbs smoothly.
Another sign is **fatigue** that is not just general tiredness but a deep muscle fatigue that limits physical endurance. This fatigue can interfere with daily tasks and reduce overall mobility.
Sometimes, polymyositis can cause **difficulty swallowing** (dysphagia) if the muscles involved in swallowing become weak. This can lead to choking or coughing while eating and may increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
In some cases, there may be **respiratory muscle involvement**, leading to shortness of breath or breathing difficulties, especially if the muscles that help with breathing weaken.
Older adults might also show **systemic symptoms** such as low-grade fever, weight loss, or general malaise, reflecting the inflammatory nature of the disease.
Although polymyositis primarily affects muscles, it can sometimes be associated with **skin changes**, especially if it overlaps with dermatomyositis. These skin signs include reddish or purplish rashes on the face, neck, knuckles, elbows, or knees, but these are less common in pure polymyositis.
Because polymyositis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition, it can sometimes be confused with other causes of muscle weakness in older adults, such as medication side effects, thyroid problems, or neurological disorders. Therefore, the presence of **gradual, symmetrical proximal muscle weakness combined with muscle pain, fatigue, swallowing difficulties, and sometimes respiratory symptoms** strongly suggests polymyositis.
In summary, the key signs of polymyositis in older adults are:
– Gradual, symmetrical weakness of proximal muscles (shoulders, hips, thighs)
– Muscle pain or tenderness
– Muscle fatigue limiting physical activity
– Difficulty swallowing
– Possible breathing difficulties due to respiratory muscle weakness
– Occasional low-grade fever, weight loss, or malaise
– Rare skin rashes if overlapping with dermatomyositis
Recognizing these signs early is important because polymyositis requires medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications and improve quality of life.