The blood tests confirmed the doctor's diagnosis of Polymyalgia rheumatica. Tablets have been prescribed which should reduce symptoms considerably within a week or so. According to the information sheet the doctor gave me, recovery varies for different people, and can continue in a reduced strength for a few months to 3 years. Treatment may need to be continued during this time to keep symptoms under control. If it does settle completely, it can recur, although this is rare.
The cause is not known. In some people blood tests may find inflammation, which mine did, but there is no obvious cause. Genetics or infection may be factors.