Final answer:
The first signs of polymyalgia rheumatica include pain and stiffness in the shoulders and hips, typically worst in the morning and improving with activity, as well as fatigue and mild fever. These symptoms reflect the cardinal signs of inflammation, and because they are nonspecific, medical evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first signs of polymyalgia rheumatica, a condition that typically affects adults over 50 years old, may present with symptoms that include pain and stiffness in the shoulders and hips, often accompanied by fatigue, a general feeling of illness, and a mild fever. These symptoms are most common when first arising in the morning and usually improve with activity. Polymyalgia is an inflammatory condition, and persistent symptoms may warrant a medical evaluation to rule out other similar conditions and to begin appropriate treatment.
Common symptoms of polymyalgia are similar to the classic cardinal signs of inflammation, which are redness, swelling, pain, and local heat, the latter three usually being more prominent in the case of polymyalgia. These signs were first documented in the time of the Roman Empire.
Additional symptoms that might accompany polymyalgia can include low-grade fever, malaise, and weight loss. Because these symptoms can overlap with many other conditions, it's important that individuals experiencing such symptoms seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis.