Managing RA Flares: Seeking Advice

20 years in after being diagnosed at 28. I have a pretty good idea of my triggers. Stress and sleep have a huge impact for me. Barometric pressure seems to effect me more then actual “bad weather” nutrition wise I find that processed meat (lunch meat, sausage, etc) and definitely sugar in excess can cause me issues. Also finding that perfect balance of keeping my body active but also giving it rest, has been my biggest obstacle. When I feel good I tend to over do it, only to then spend the next day in bed, which then spirals into depression and guilt, which then amplifies the pain and fatigue. My best advice is balance. In all areas… also did I mention meds. I’m all about embracing the medicine. Couldn’t do any of it without the drugs.

Stress and lack of sleep are big triggers for majority of my illnesses! Both are easier said than don. It’s hard to be consistent but to also maintain low stress especially when you don’t feel well. Do the best you can and don’t be too hard on yourself on bad days.

I have a document where I keep track of my daily pain, any inflamed joints, and the time, weather, anything I was doing that might have caused a flare up. I tend to get flare ups from stress and cold weather (rain, snow, wind). My pain is also usually worse at night. If I have to be outside, I bring compression gloves for my hands, IcyHot, and/or my rechargeable hand warmer. Otherwise, I curl up in bed with a heat pack and try to take it easy. Watching funny/wholesome videos also helps me distract from the pain

Plenty of rest talk to your doctors