Over exertion:
Increased activity or prolonged inactivity can cause our muscles to rebel. Over doing it is a sure fire way to bring on a flare-up, but then so is doing too little. On your good days you may be tempted to push a little harder in order to get things done. On your really bad days you may only want to crawl back into bed and pull the covers up over your head. This is when pacing becomes so very important. Modifying your activities - proceeding at a slow, steady pace - on bad day, as well as good days - will get you that much further ahead in the long run, and just might help avoid a flare. I generally find that practicing what I preach is easier said than done. On those days all my good intentions seem to fly right out the window. I've found that taking an over the counter medication (OCD), such as advil, does not eliminate the pain, but it does seem to help take the edge off. You may need to experiment to discover if cold or heat works best for you. I find a hot shower, along with my microwave heated ricebags to help relieve my aches and pains. If cold works best for you then try gel-pacs. You may find warm water therapy, massage, yoga, stretching, and gentle exercise to be helpful as well.
Hormonal fluctuations: Premenstrual and menopausal states for women - andropause or male menopause for men.
Hormonal fluctuations can cause our bodies to go haywire. It is during these times that we need to be extra kind to ourselves. Menopause and PMS can aggravate and intensify our symptoms. Fluid retention may be a problem so be sure to check with your physician if you feel the need for a diuretic. A look at menopause, and what it means for you as a woman can be found here. For the men, yes you sure do suffer hormonal fluctuations, you will find further information at wellnessmd.com.
Anxiety and depression:
As we struggle to come to terms with our illness, and cope with it various aspects, we may find that anxiety and depression are our constant companions. We may feel anxious about our future, and depressed by the prospects. Depression is especially difficult to cope with during a flare-up. As our symptoms escalate we may find ourselves struggling to keep our heads above water. Check out this excellent topic on depression, by John McManamy, for invaluable information, and coping tips. Sometimes just knowing
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