Definition of Flare

Q: When reading articles about arthritis, I often come across the word "flare." What is the definition of flare?

A: The definition of “flare” is a worsening of the disease process. If you have arthritis, you've probably experienced a flare at one time or another – your disease seems to be well under control for a while, then suddenly your joints become inflamed and painful. You may experience general malaise and fatigue.

The cause of a flare varies depending on the specific disease in question. In rheumatoid arthritis, for example, a flare can be related to natural (but poorly understood) fluctuations in the immunological processes that drive inflammation. In osteoarthritis, flares may be induced by local trauma to the joint.

John A. Hardin, MD, Rheumatologist

Norma

27 Oct 2009, 08:51

Dear Laurie,

I am also suffering with RA and my dr is treating me more agressively. Voltaren/ Diclofenac did not work for me, neither did many of the pain relievers I tried. What has been working is remicade, a biologic drug. I would suggest you find another rheumatologist, perhaps one associated with a teaching hospital as they are more familar with the newer therapies. Good Luck. - Norma

Laurie

15 Sep 2009, 17:55

I am 47 and was dx with JRA at 15. I was symptomatic from 10 until 18 then fairly symptom free until 24-26 then only periodically mildly symtomatc until 42. Now it seems I have had a "flare" for 5 years. in the past year my hands, feet and elbows have become symptomatic in addition to my knees. I take Diclofenac 75 mg up to 3 times a day and 4mg of methylpred daily. I see my rhumatologist quarterely. My question is "What should my treatment goal be? painfree or functional?" I have significant stiffness and pain in my hands and feet for 3-4 hours then mild pain throughout the day, everyday. I excercise regularly even though it hurts. Should I seek another doctor and/or more aggresive treatment? Should I avoid biologics?

Lynn Walden

28 Aug 2009, 00:21

she has goose egg spots that turns into large areas of red

Lynn Walden

28 Aug 2009, 00:19

help..my mother has rumetoid arthritis ..dont know what to do