Flare-upsalso called flares or relapsesare periods where symptoms of PsA get worse.
PsA can cause the joints to become swollen, stiff, and painful.
Some people with PsA may also have nail and skin changes and chronic fatigue.
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It is difficult to know when a flare-up may come about but avoiding certain triggers may prevent disease flares.
Your treatment plan can also reduce the risk and severity of flares.
Flare Triggers
Every person with PsA has uniquetriggersthat cause PsA to flare up.
Something that may cause your disease to flare up may not affect others with PsA.
Common PsA triggers may include the following.
Stress
Stress is one of the most common triggers of PsA flares.
Stress unleashes chemicals that cause inflammation.
Other illnessessuch as a coldcan also trigger a flare.
Bumps and bruises are additional triggers, as trauma to any area with PsA means inflammation will follow.
If you miss a mediation dose or two, PsA can flare-up.
In addition, skipping your medications can make it harder for the medicine to do its job.
To avoid missing doses, keep a daily pill log or download a smartphone reminder app.
Medication Changes
A person with PsA may find their symptoms get worse when they change medications.
This is because it may take some time for the medication to be effective.
Having an Unhealthy Diet
Eating sugary and fried foods can cause PSA to flare up more often.
It helps to limit fatty meats, processed foods, and sugary treats.
Smoking
You shouldnt smoke with PsA.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the safest ways to quit smoking.
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Your body needs sleep to stay healthy.
Signs of a Flare
The symptoms and intensity of PsA flares vary from person-to-person.
But there are some red flags to look out for with a flare.
You may experience some of these or all of them during a flare-up.
Malaise may come on gradually or it may appear suddenly.
Fatigue
Your body needs sleep to heal so you could wake up refreshed and rested.
But PsA can make you feel exhausted even after 8 hours of sleep.
Skin Symptoms
It is not uncommon for a psoriasis flare-up to happen alongside a PsA flare.
For people who dont have psoriasis, they may still experience skin symptoms, including rashes.
Anytime, you feel you are starting to experience a PsA flare, be on guard for skin symptoms.
Other types ofinflammatory arthritismay cause symmetrical joint pain or pain that affects the joints on both sides (i.e.
both hands or both knees).
Each person with PsA will have different joints affected by a PsA flare.
This joint is strong and supports the entire weight of the upper body.
Knee Pain
Many people with PsA complain of knee pain.
Hand and Finger Pain
Tenderness, pain, and swelling can affect the joints of the hands.
Foot and Toe Pain
you’ve got the option to also experience dactylitis in your toes.
Additionally, you may also have foot, heel, and ankle pain.
You might experience anxiety or digestive issues.
Hold and Cold Therapy
Cold and hot packs can make a difference in how you feel.
Cold packs have a numbing effect, so they can dull pain.
A heating pad can relieve pain and swelling in joints by relaxing the muscles.
You dont have to use an ice pack or a heating pad for relief.
Instead, eat foods that fight inflammation, including fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Manage Stress
You manage stress during a flare by relaxing your mind and body.
you might relax your body with yoga,progressive muscle relaxation, a walk, or massage.
During a flare-up, try gentle exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
Rest
It is important to get proper rest when your PsA is flaring.
It is also important to pace yourself with a flare.
Ask for help if you need it and focus on taking care of yourself.
Call Your Healthcare Provider
Sometimes, a flare-up requires more than self-management.
They can also prescribe a more powerful NSAID or acorticosteroidto help you get through the flare.
Prevention
Part of better disease management is working towards preventing flares in the first place.
This starts with knowing and avoiding triggers.
Explore some ways to prevent flare-ups of PsA.
Reducing stressors: Since stress is a PsA trigger, it can make you more sensitive to pain.
Protecting your joints: You may think you have to give up favorite activities to avoid flares.
You dont; you just have to find ways to take the stress off of your joints.
sweet snacks and soda), and refined carbs (like white bread, rice, and pasta).
If dairy triggers PsA symptoms, have a go at limit your daily intake.
But treatment can manage inflammation and reduce your risk for flares.
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