Your Guide to Treatment of Acute Flare of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Think of a rheumatoid arthritis flare like an unexpected storm. You can’t always stop it from rolling in, but you can prepare your home and have a safety plan ready. This proactive approach is key to weathering the storm with more confidence and less distress. Being prepared means knowing your options and having your tools ready before the pain and fatigue set in. This article is your guide to building that personal safety plan. We will explore everything from the first-line medical treatment of acute flare of rheumatoid arthritis to the complementary self-care practices that help you find relief and recover more quickly.

Key Takeaways

• Create a proactive flare plan: Assemble a toolkit with comfort items and write down your action steps so you can respond quickly and calmly when symptoms intensify.
• Use a multi-layered approach to relief: Work with your doctor on medications while incorporating complementary strategies like light therapy, an anti-inflammatory diet, and gentle movement to manage symptoms from all angles.
• Track your symptoms to find your patterns: Keeping a simple daily log of your pain, activities, and stress levels helps you and your doctor identify personal triggers and fine-tune your treatment for better long-term results.

What Is a Rheumatoid Arthritis Flare?

If you live with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you know that your symptoms can ebb and flow. A rheumatoid arthritis flare is a period when your symptoms suddenly intensify, making everyday life feel much more difficult. Think of it as the volume turning way up on your joint pain, swelling, fatigue, and stiffness. During a flare, what was once manageable can become overwhelming, and it’s a common part of the RA experience.

Understanding what a flare is—and what it isn’t—is the first step toward managing it. It’s not a sign that you’ve done something wrong; it’s simply the nature of this autoimmune condition. Learning to recognize the signs, potential triggers, and duration can help you feel more in control when a flare strikes.

Know the Symptoms of an RA Flare

When an RA flare begins, you’ll likely notice a significant increase in your usual symptoms. The most common signs include more intense joint pain, noticeable swelling, and prolonged morning stiffness that just won’t seem to quit. One of the most telling symptoms is an overwhelming sense of fatigue that goes beyond normal tiredness. For some, a flare can creep up over a few days, while for others, it can hit suddenly without much warning. Learning to listen to your body’s early signals is key to getting ahead of the discomfort and finding effective ways to manage your pain.

How Long Do Flares Usually Last?

One of the most frustrating things about RA flares is their unpredictability, and that includes how long they last. A flare can be as short as a few days or can linger for several weeks or even months. The duration is different for everyone and can even vary from one flare to the next for the same person. During this time, you can expect to feel more joint tenderness, swelling, and pain, along with that deep fatigue. Because there’s no set timeline, focusing on day-to-day management and self-care is the most productive approach you can take.

What Triggers an RA Flare?

Sometimes, you can pinpoint exactly what caused your flare, but other times, it can feel like it came out of nowhere. Common triggers include pushing yourself too hard physically, battling an infection like the flu, or even experiencing a period of high stress. Forgetting to take your medication as prescribed can also set one off. It’s also completely normal for a flare to happen without any clear reason. Keeping a simple journal of your activities, stress levels, and diet can sometimes help you identify personal patterns and potential triggers over time.

Your First-Line Treatments for an RA Flare

When an RA flare hits, the sudden increase in pain and swelling can feel overwhelming. Having a clear plan of action is key to getting through it. The first step is often to turn to proven medical treatments that can quickly reduce inflammation and get your symptoms under control. These are the go-to options your doctor will likely discuss with you to manage an acute flare. They work by targeting the underlying inflammation that causes joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue, helping you find relief and get back to your daily life sooner. Think of these as your first line of defense—the tools you and your healthcare provider can use to calm the storm inside your joints.

Using NSAIDs to Control Inflammation

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are a common starting point for managing the pain and swelling of an RA flare. You’re probably already familiar with over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and naproxen, which can be very effective for milder symptoms. They work by blocking the enzymes that produce inflammatory chemicals in your body. For more intense flares, your doctor might recommend stronger, prescription-strength NSAIDs to provide more significant relief. While they don't slow the progression of RA itself, they are incredibly helpful for managing the immediate discomfort and making you more comfortable as the flare subsides.

Finding Fast Relief with Corticosteroids

When you need to get symptoms under control quickly, corticosteroids are a powerful option. These potent anti-inflammatory medications like prednisone can provide rapid relief from severe joint pain and swelling. Doctors often prescribe them for short-term use to break the cycle of a particularly bad flare. Because they are so effective, you can feel a difference in a short amount of time. The goal is typically to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period possible, tapering off the medication as your symptoms improve and your long-term medications take over again.

Adjusting Your Long-Term Medications

Your daily RA medication is designed to keep symptoms at bay, but a flare can be a sign that something needs to change. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the cornerstone of long-term RA treatment, as they work to suppress your immune system and slow down joint damage. If you’re experiencing more frequent or severe flares, it might be time to have a conversation with your rheumatologist. They may suggest adjusting the dosage of your current medication or switching to a different one to better manage the disease and prevent future flare-ups.

Exploring Combination Therapies

Sometimes, a single medication isn’t enough to keep RA under control. In these cases, your doctor might recommend a combination therapy approach. This involves using more than one DMARD or pairing a DMARD with another type of drug, like a biologic. Research shows that combination DMARD therapies can be highly effective at reducing symptoms and slowing disease progression. By targeting the inflammatory process from multiple angles, this strategy can offer better results and help you achieve a state of low disease activity or even remission, giving you more control over your health.

How Do Flare Medications Actually Work?

When you’re in the middle of a rheumatoid arthritis flare, your main goal is to find relief—and fast. Understanding how different medications work can help you have more informed conversations with your doctor and feel more in control of your treatment plan. Think of flare medications as different tools for different jobs. Some are designed for quick, short-term relief to calm the storm, while others work in the background to keep the storm from brewing in the first place.

The most common medications for flares fall into a few key categories. You have your over-the-counter options that can take the edge off, powerful anti-inflammatories for more intense symptoms, and your long-term medications that might need adjusting. Each one targets your body’s inflammatory response in a unique way. Getting familiar with these mechanisms is the first step toward building a flare management plan that truly works for you, combining medical treatments with supportive, natural approaches like light therapy for pain management.

How NSAIDs Fight Inflammation

NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are often the first line of defense when a flare begins. You probably already have some in your medicine cabinet, like ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications work by blocking specific enzymes in your body that produce substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are key players in the inflammatory process—they’re responsible for signaling pain and causing swelling in your joints. By reducing their production, NSAIDs help dial down the pain and irritation, making it easier to move. While over-the-counter versions are common, your doctor might prescribe a stronger dose to better manage your symptoms.

The Role of Corticosteroids in Rapid Relief

When a flare is severe and you need to get inflammation under control quickly, your doctor might suggest corticosteroids. These are powerful medications that mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone your body naturally produces to manage stress and suppress inflammation. Corticosteroids work by putting a damper on your immune system’s overactive response, which provides rapid relief from intense joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Because they are so potent, they are typically used as a short-term solution to break the cycle of a bad flare, giving your body a chance to reset while your long-term medications continue to work.

When to Talk to Your Doctor About Adjusting Meds

If you find yourself reaching for flare medications more and more often, or if your symptoms seem to be gradually getting worse, it’s a clear signal to check in with your doctor. Frequent flares can mean that your long-term treatment plan needs a second look. Medications like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are designed to manage RA day-to-day and prevent joint damage over time. When they aren’t working as well as they should, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or explore other options. Proactively managing flares with your healthcare team is key to maintaining your quality of life and long-term joint health.

Find Natural Relief for Your Flare Symptoms

While medication is a critical part of managing a rheumatoid arthritis flare, you can also incorporate natural, complementary strategies to help ease your symptoms. Think of these as extra tools in your flare-management toolkit. They can work alongside your prescribed treatments to reduce pain, calm inflammation, and give you a greater sense of control when your body feels like it’s working against you.

Finding what works for you might take a little trial and error, but these gentle, supportive methods can make a real difference in your day-to-day comfort. From targeted therapies that address inflammation at the source to simple at-home remedies that soothe aching joints, these approaches focus on holistic well-being. They can help calm not just the physical symptoms but also the stress that often comes with a flare, creating a more peaceful environment for your body to heal.

Reduce Inflammation with Light Therapy

When your joints are screaming, a drug-free and non-invasive option can feel like a breath of fresh air. Light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate your cells’ natural healing processes. It’s a gentle yet powerful way to find effective pain management during a flare. By targeting inflammation directly at the source, light therapy can help reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and improve joint mobility without the side effects that can come with medication. It’s a modern approach that supports your body’s ability to repair itself.

Soothe Joints with Heat and Cold Therapy

Sometimes the simplest remedies are the most effective. Alternating between heat and cold can provide immediate, targeted relief for sore and swollen joints. According to the Mayo Clinic, applying heat can help ease pain and relax the tense, stiff muscles that often accompany a flare. Try a warm compress, a heated blanket, or a warm bath to loosen things up. On the other hand, cold therapy is your go-to for acute pain and swelling. An ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel can help dull the pain and numb the area, providing quick relief when you need it most.

Add Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Supplements

What you eat can either fuel inflammation or help fight it. During a flare, focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet can be a powerful way to support your body from the inside out. Try to fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Cold-water fish like salmon are especially beneficial because they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to help reduce swelling. At the same time, try to limit processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats that can make inflammation worse. Always talk with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your routine.

Calm Your Body with Acupuncture and Mindfulness

The connection between stress and RA symptoms is undeniable—worry and tension can absolutely make a flare feel worse. This is where mind-body practices come in. Simple mindfulness techniques like deep breathing exercises, gentle yoga, or tai chi can help calm your nervous system and reduce your body’s stress response. Many people also find relief through acupuncture, an ancient practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to help rebalance energy and alleviate pain. These practices won’t just help you feel better physically; they can also provide a much-needed sense of peace and calm during a difficult time.

Simple Lifestyle Changes for Flare Management

When you’re in the middle of a rheumatoid arthritis flare, it can feel like your only option is to wait it out. But small, intentional adjustments to your daily routine can make a significant difference in how you feel. Managing your RA is about more than just medication; it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your joints and overall well-being. These simple changes can help you regain a sense of control, reduce the intensity of your symptoms, and get back to feeling more like yourself. By focusing on how you rest, move, and even sleep, you can build a powerful toolkit for managing flares and supporting your body’s healing process.

Find Your Balance Between Rest and Activity

Listening to your body is key during a flare. When your symptoms are at their worst, giving yourself permission to rest for a day or two is absolutely necessary. However, it’s a delicate balance. Staying in bed for too long can cause your muscles to weaken and your joints to become stiff, which can actually increase your pain. The goal is to find a middle ground. Pay attention to your body’s signals and gently reintroduce activity as you start to feel better. This approach helps you recover without losing mobility, supporting your journey toward effective pain management.

Incorporate Gentle Movement and Stretching

While intense exercise is off the table during a flare, gentle movement is one of the best things you can do for your joints. Activities like light stretching, walking, or tai chi strengthen the muscles around your joints, which provides better support and can ease fatigue. Before starting anything new, it’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor. A good rule of thumb is to avoid exercising any joint that is actively swollen, tender, or inflamed. Focusing on movement that feels good can be a crucial part of your performance recovery and long-term joint health.

Protect Your Joints Throughout the Day

You can reduce the strain on your joints by making small tweaks to how you move through your day. Think about using your larger, stronger joints and muscles to do the heavy lifting. For example, push open a heavy door with your shoulder or side instead of your hands and wrists. When carrying groceries, use your forearms instead of gripping the bags with your fingers. If a particular joint feels weak or sore, don’t hesitate to use a brace or splint for extra support. These mindful adjustments protect your joints from unnecessary stress and align with a holistic approach to your health.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

A bad night’s sleep can make everything feel worse, especially pain and fatigue. When your body is fighting inflammation, it needs quality rest to repair and recover. Creating a consistent and relaxing bedtime routine can work wonders for your sleep quality. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even on weekends. In the hour before bed, put away screens and do something calming, like reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to gentle music. Prioritizing sleep is a cornerstone of preventative wellness and can significantly impact how you manage your RA symptoms.

Take Control with Daily Self-Care Strategies

Managing rheumatoid arthritis goes beyond just medications and appointments. The small choices you make every day can have a huge impact on how you feel, helping you reduce the frequency and severity of flares. Think of these self-care strategies as your personal toolkit for managing symptoms and supporting your body’s healing process. By focusing on what you can control—like your stress levels, diet, and daily habits—you empower yourself to live more comfortably with RA.

These aren't quick fixes, but consistent, mindful practices that complement your medical treatments. Integrating stress management techniques can calm your nervous system and ease inflammation. Fueling your body with the right foods can provide the building blocks it needs to fight back against joint pain. And building a strong support network ensures you never have to feel isolated on your journey. These daily actions are a powerful way to invest in your long-term health and preventative wellness, giving you more control over your condition and your life.

Lower Your Stress to Reduce Symptoms

It’s no secret that stress can make just about any health condition feel worse, and RA is no exception. When you’re stressed, your body can ramp up its inflammatory response, which can trigger or intensify a flare. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is a critical part of your self-care routine. This doesn't have to be complicated. Simple practices like deep breathing exercises, gentle yoga, or even just setting aside 15 minutes for a relaxing hobby can make a difference. Some people find that writing in a journal helps process their feelings, while others prefer talking with a trusted friend. The key is to find what helps you feel calm and centered.

Fuel Your Body with an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

The food you eat can either contribute to inflammation or help fight it. While there’s no magic diet for RA, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods can support your body and potentially ease your symptoms. Try to fill your plate with a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. According to health experts, cold-water fish like salmon are particularly beneficial because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. You don't have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start by adding one more serving of vegetables to your day or swapping a processed snack for a piece of fruit.

Understand the Importance of Quitting Smoking

If you smoke, one of the most impactful things you can do for your health is to quit. Smoking is known to worsen RA and can even interfere with the effectiveness of your medications. Research from the Mayo Clinic shows a clear link between smoking and more severe rheumatoid arthritis. We know that quitting is incredibly challenging, but it’s a powerful step toward gaining more control over your condition. Your doctor can be a fantastic resource, offering tools and strategies to help you quit for good. Don’t hesitate to ask for their support—it’s a conversation worth having for your long-term joint health.

Create a Support System You Can Rely On

Living with a chronic condition like RA can feel isolating at times, which is why having a strong support system is so important. You don’t have to manage the physical and emotional challenges alone. Make it a point to connect with family and friends who lift you up. Let them know what you’re going through and how they can help. You might also find comfort in connecting with others who truly understand what it’s like to live with RA. Online forums and local support groups can be incredible sources of encouragement, practical advice, and shared experience. Building these connections reminds you that you’re part of a community.

When to See a Doctor for Your RA Flare

Managing a rheumatoid arthritis flare often involves a combination of at-home care and professional medical guidance. While self-management strategies are essential for day-to-day comfort, it’s just as important to recognize when your body is sending signals that it needs more support. Listening to these cues and knowing when to reach out to your doctor is a key part of taking control of your health. Think of your healthcare provider as a partner in your wellness journey. Keeping them informed allows them to adjust your treatment plan, offer new solutions, and ensure you’re on the best path to feeling better. Don’t hesitate to make the call—advocating for your own well-being is one of the most powerful things you can do.

Warning Signs That Require a Doctor's Visit

It’s time to check in with your doctor if you notice your symptoms are slowly but consistently getting worse. This gradual increase in pain, stiffness, or fatigue could mean your current treatment plan needs a tune-up. You should also schedule a visit if you’re experiencing severe pain that isn’t responding to your usual medications or self-care strategies. Living with intense, persistent pain isn’t something you just have to accept. Your doctor can discuss other options, like a steroid injection, to provide relief and help get the inflammation under control. Proactive communication is a cornerstone of effective pain management and helps you stay ahead of your symptoms.

What to Do if Your Symptoms Don't Improve

You’ve tried resting, using heat and cold packs, and sticking to your self-care routine, but the flare just won’t let up. If your symptoms haven't improved after a few days, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor. They can help you figure out the next steps and prevent the flare from dragging on. It’s also important to reach out if you suspect the flare was triggered by missing a dose of your medication. Your doctor can help you create a plan to get back on track safely and effectively without any guesswork. There’s no shame in needing a little extra help; that’s what your healthcare team is there for.

Recognizing a Medical Emergency

While most RA flares aren't emergencies, some symptoms demand immediate medical attention. If you experience severe and sudden joint pain accompanied by significant swelling, redness, or a feeling of warmth in the joint, you should seek urgent care. These could be signs of an infection or another serious issue that needs to be addressed right away. According to the Mayo Clinic, these types of severe symptoms require a prompt diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, if you’re having persistent trouble sleeping due to pain or discomfort, let your doctor know. Quality sleep is vital for managing inflammation and overall health, and your doctor can help find a solution.

How to Track Your Flare Symptoms

Living with rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes feel unpredictable, but tracking your symptoms is one of the most powerful things you can do to regain a sense of control. When you’re in the middle of a flare, it’s hard to remember the specifics of how it started or what the pain felt like last week. Keeping a consistent record helps you see the bigger picture. It allows you to identify patterns, understand your body’s signals, and see what’s working—and what isn’t.

This information is incredibly valuable for your healthcare team, too. Instead of trying to recall details during a doctor's appointment, you can present a clear, detailed log of your experience. This helps your doctor make more informed decisions about your treatment plan, from adjusting medications to recommending complementary therapies. Think of it as creating a personal health map; the more details you add, the easier it is to find the best path forward. It transforms you from a passenger into the driver of your own health journey, equipped with the data you need to make the best choices for your body.

Keep a Journal of Your Pain and Symptoms

Starting a symptom journal doesn't have to be complicated. You can use a simple notebook, a note-taking app on your phone, or a dedicated symptom tracker app. The key is consistency. Every day, take a few moments to jot down key information: your pain levels on a scale of 1 to 10, which joints are affected, the duration of any morning stiffness, and your overall fatigue and energy levels. It’s also helpful to note your mood and any activities you did that day. This practice creates a detailed record that helps you and your doctor see flare patterns more clearly and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Monitor Your Response to Treatments

Your journal is also the perfect place to track how you respond to different treatments. When you start a new medication, try a home remedy, or receive a therapy session, make a note of it. Did your pain lessen? Did your stiffness improve? Were there any side effects? This applies to everything from over-the-counter pain relievers to specialized treatments like light therapy for pain management. By carefully monitoring your body’s reactions, you can have more productive conversations with your doctor about what’s providing relief. This detailed feedback helps fine-tune your approach, ensuring your treatment plan is as effective as possible for your specific needs.

Pinpoint Your Flare Patterns and Triggers

Over time, your symptom journal will start to reveal connections you might not have noticed otherwise. You might see that your symptoms worsen after a stressful week at work, a few nights of poor sleep, or eating certain foods. Identifying your personal flare triggers is a major step toward proactive management. While you can’t control every trigger, knowing what they are gives you the power to make lifestyle adjustments. You can focus on stress-reduction techniques, prioritize sleep, or modify your diet. This knowledge allows you to anticipate potential flares and take steps to minimize their intensity and duration, helping you feel more prepared and in control.

Create Your Personalized Flare Management Plan

Living with rheumatoid arthritis means that flares can be an unwelcome, but not uncommon, part of life. While you can’t always predict when one will happen, you can create a solid plan to manage it. Being prepared helps you feel more in control and allows you to respond quickly and effectively when symptoms arise. A personalized plan empowers you to take action, combining at-home care with professional medical advice to get you through the toughest days. This strategy isn't just about reacting to pain; it's about proactively setting yourself up for quicker recovery and better long-term health. By thinking ahead, you can assemble the tools, strategies, and support system you need to face a flare with confidence. It’s about turning a moment of uncertainty into a moment of action, where you know exactly what to do to start feeling better. This approach can significantly reduce the anxiety that often comes with a flare, allowing you to focus your energy on healing. Your plan will be unique to you, tailored to your specific symptoms, triggers, and lifestyle. It’s a living document that you can adjust as you learn more about your body and what works best for you.

Build Your Go-To Flare Toolkit

When an RA flare hits, the last thing you want to do is scramble for supplies. That’s why having a pre-assembled toolkit is a game-changer. Flares can leave you feeling exhausted with tender, swollen joints, and they can be triggered by anything from overexertion to stress or illness. Your toolkit should contain everything that brings you comfort and relief. Think of it as your flare first-aid kit. Include items like heat pads and cold packs, comfortable clothing, your favorite relaxing tea, and some easy-to-prepare meals or snacks. You can also add a list of gentle stretches, a good book, or a link to a guided meditation. Having these items ready means you can focus all your energy on resting and recovery.

Prepare a Strategy for Future Flares

Beyond your physical toolkit, having a clear action plan is crucial. Decide ahead of time what your first steps will be when you feel a flare coming on. This plan should include who you will contact and what treatments you’ll try first. If your symptoms are getting worse or flares are happening more often, it might be time to review your RA medications with your doctor. For severe pain that doesn’t respond to your usual methods, a steroid injection could be an option to discuss. Write down your doctor's contact information and the steps you'll take, so you have a simple guide to follow when you’re not feeling your best. This preparation removes the guesswork and stress from the situation.

Work with Your Healthcare Team for Long-Term Success

Managing RA is a team sport, and you are the captain. Your treatment works best when it’s part of a full plan that includes consistent medical care, emotional support, and self-care strategies. Your healthcare team may include your primary doctor, a rheumatologist, and other specialists who can provide holistic care. It’s essential to take your medications as prescribed, even on days you feel good, to help prevent future joint damage. Open communication with your providers is key. Keep them updated on your symptoms, flare frequency, and how your treatment plan is working. Together, you can make adjustments and find the best path forward for your long-term wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if I'm having a true RA flare or just a couple of bad days? That's a great question, and the line can feel blurry sometimes. Generally, a few bad days might involve some increased achiness or fatigue, but a true flare is a significant step up in intensity and duration. During a flare, you'll likely notice that your joint pain, swelling, and stiffness are much more persistent and severe than your typical day-to-day symptoms. The fatigue is often profound, feeling more like a full-body exhaustion that rest doesn't fix. If your symptoms are disrupting your daily life for more than a couple of days and aren't responding to your usual self-care, you're likely in a flare.

Do I have to rely only on medication during a flare, or can natural approaches really help? Medication is absolutely a critical tool for getting inflammation under control, but it doesn't have to be your only one. Think of natural strategies as powerful partners to your prescribed treatment. While your medication works on the underlying disease process, things like gentle movement, heat and cold therapy, and an anti-inflammatory diet can make a huge difference in your immediate comfort and overall well-being. They help manage the pain, stiffness, and stress that come with a flare, giving you more control over how you feel day-to-day.

How exactly does light therapy help with the joint pain from an RA flare? Light therapy works at a cellular level to address the root of the pain, which is inflammation. When specific wavelengths of light are applied to your skin, they penetrate the tissue and stimulate your cells' mitochondria—think of them as the tiny power plants inside your cells. This process helps reduce inflammation and swelling directly in the joint, which in turn alleviates pain. It's a non-invasive way to support your body's natural healing mechanisms without the side effects that can come with some medications.

Is it actually possible to prevent RA flares from happening altogether? While completely preventing all future flares might not be realistic, you can absolutely take steps to reduce their frequency and severity. The key is to identify your personal triggers by tracking your symptoms, stress levels, and daily activities. Once you know what tends to set off your symptoms—whether it's overexertion, lack of sleep, or high stress—you can make intentional lifestyle choices to manage them. Consistently taking your medication as prescribed is your foundation for prevention, and layering on these proactive self-care habits gives you the best shot at keeping flares at bay.

What's the most important information to share with my doctor about my flares? When you talk to your doctor, being specific is incredibly helpful. Instead of just saying you had a flare, try to provide details you've tracked in a journal. Note how long the flare lasted, which specific joints were most affected, and how you rated your pain and fatigue on a scale of 1 to 10. It's also very useful to mention what you were doing right before the flare started and what, if anything, helped you feel better. This detailed picture helps your doctor see patterns and make more effective adjustments to your long-term treatment plan.