Resources listed for Flare Mangement

How to manage flare-ups of your condition

• Continue taking your medication exactly as prescribed.
• You may take regular pain relief or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) for up to 2-3 weeks to help settle the flare.
  Please note: NSAIDs may not be suitable for everyone - speak to your GP if you are unsure.
• Keep moving with gentle exercises to reduce stiffness.
• Apply a cold pack (or ice wrapped in a cloth) to swollen joints.
• Use heat (such as a hot water bottle or heat pad) on stiff or painful joints that are not swollen.
• Let family, friends, or colleagues know you are having a flare-up so they can support you if needed.
• If your symptoms continue, ask your GP whether a steroid injection or a short course of oral steroids may be appropriate.

When to seek further advice

If your flare-up has not improved after 2 weeks, or if you are experiencing frequent flare-ups, please contact us and provide the following information:

• Are you experiencing pain, stiffness, or both?
• Which joints are affected?
• Is there any swelling? If so, please send clear photos of the joints (top and side views).
• How long have you had these symptoms?
• Are your symptoms worse in the morning? If so, how long does it take to improve?
• Has your mobility or ability to use the affected area changed?
• Are you able to grip objects as usual?
• Does the joint feel warm or hot?
• What treatments have you tried (e.g. pain relief, anti-inflammatories, gels, hot/cold packs)?
• Have you had any recent infections, vaccinations, injuries, or overuse of the area before symptoms started?

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Name	Description	Review Date