Dr Saadia Riaz | Consultant Rheumatologist

HOW TO MANAGE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS FLARE-UPS

Rheumatoid arthritis flares are periods of increased inflammation, pain, fatigue, and stiffness.
They can come on suddenly without warning.

TRIGGERS:
overexertion
changes in weather
stress or anxiety
changes in diet or medication
or for no apparent reason.

Here are some things you can do to manage a flare-up.

1-REST:
If you allow your body and joints to rest, you may be back on your feet in your normal routine much faster.

2-HEAT OR COLD PACKS:
Heat is a great way to provide relief and stimulate blood circulation to an affected joint. It can be very soothing and reduce pain.

For inflammation around a joint, applying a cold pack for twenty minutes at a time every hour or so can help reduce that inflammation and provide pain relief.

3-PAIN MEDICATION :
Talking to your doctor about boosting a dosage during a flare is the best way to figure out if this is something you can do when the need arises.

4- IMMOBILIZE THE AFFECTED JOINTS
Wearing a brace or sleeve over the affected joints can provide much-needed warmth, compression, and stabilization.
A brace can take some of the weight off of the joint and make it easier to move comfortably.

5- VERY IMPORTANT:
When an arthritis flare hits, make sure you have a plan in place with your doctor.
Contact your doctor immediately or attend emergency department as soon as possible.