2011 Off To Auspicious Start-Part 2

Both my left and right hand Carpel Tunnel surgeries were completed by Feb 9th, 2011. My doctor was surprised at the severity of compression to the nerves in both hands, and how rapidly the condition, and my symptoms advanced between mid November 2010, and the first of January 2011. He suspected the possibility of a systemic problem. Turns out that he was correct. Shortly before the right hand surgery, which took place on Feb 9th, I began to experience inflammation and some minor stiffness/soreness in feet and hands. I took it as residual affects of the first surgery. After my right hand surgery, the inflammation in hands/feet continued. Once back to work, (Feb 22nd), the symptoms accelerated dramatically. Hands, feet, severely swollen and quite painful. Knees, shoulders, hips very painful as well, effecting my mobility. I've also experienced a significant weight loss, (blessing in disguise?), in the past few months. After many blood tests, ex-rays, and a referral to a Rheumatologist, a probable diagnosis has been determined.
My Rheumatologist has narrowed down her diagnosis to PMR. Polymyalgia Rheumatica is a condition related to arthritis. Symptoms are what I've described above.  Carpel Tunnel syndrome is also one of the many symptoms, which seems to explain the sudden onset of those symptoms late last year. The cause not known at this time.
PMR is generally treated with corticosteroids. The steroid most often prescribed is prednisone, which is what I am currently taking. It greatly relieves symptoms, and allows patients to lead a more normal life, although it does have some negative side affects.
 I will be gradually weened off of this powerful steroid. It will take up to a year, and possibly longer, if symptoms return, as the dosage continues to be reduced.
At least we now  seem to have an answer to what the hell was happening to me.