April 2024 Newsletter: Managing Arthritis Flares and Finding Relief

Dear Patients,

Welcome to the April issue of the Bay Arthritis Institute newsletter. This month, we focus on managing arthritis flares and finding relief. Flares of rheumatic conditions can be hard. However, there are ways to cope and feel better.

Understanding and Coping With Flare-Ups

A flare is a time when your disease is more active. You may have more pain, stiffness, swelling and tiredness. Flares can be hard to predict, and they can upset your plans. Even so, knowing your triggers helps you lessen their impact. Stress, doing too much, weather changes and some foods may all play a part.

Work closely with your care team to build a flare plan made for you. Your plan may include medicine changes, lifestyle changes and self-care steps.

5 Tips for Managing Arthritis Flares

During a flare, easing pain and swelling comes first. These tips can help:

Take Your Medicine as Directed

Take your medicines just as your provider prescribed. These may include pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and disease-modifying drugs.

Rest and Relax

Give your body the rest it needs. Deep breathing, meditation or gentle stretching can lower stress and help you relax.

Try Heat and Cold

Try heat packs, warm baths or cold packs to soothe sore joints and muscles. Find what works best for you, and add it to your flare routine.

Move Gently

Rest is important during a flare. Still, gentle exercise can help you move better and feel less stiff. Try walking, swimming or yoga. Listen to your body, and don’t overdo it.

Eat Well

Some foods may trigger swelling and make symptoms worse. So aim for a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.

Help Paying for Medicine During Flares

We know that getting your medicine can be hard, especially during a flare. The good news is that patient assistance programs can help. Drug companies, nonprofit groups and government agencies run these programs. They offer money help or free medicine to people who qualify.

To learn more and see if you qualify, ask your provider or pharmacist. Groups such as the Arthritis Foundation also offer help with this process.

Sunshine, Vitamin D and Your Health

Did you know that sunlight can raise your vitamin D level? Vitamin D is key for strong bones and a healthy immune system. That makes it very important for people with rheumatic conditions. However, you also need to protect your skin. Too much sun can cause sunburn and raise your risk of skin cancer.

Here in Florida, we get plenty of sunshine all year. Enjoy sunny days outdoors, but wear sunscreen, protective clothing and sunglasses. If you’re worried about your vitamin D level, ask your provider about supplements.

We hope these tips help you manage flares and find relief. Remember, you’re not alone. Our team at Bay Arthritis Institute is here to support you every step of the way. You can also read our guide to rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Panama City.

Stay well and take care,

Amir Agha, M.D., CEO
Bay Arthritis Institute

Sources: American College of Rheumatology, Arthritis Foundation

---

Contact us at (850) 215-3062

Reception: ext. 201, 202, or 204
Medical Assistants: ext. 206, 220, 213, 221
Infusion: ext. 219, 205, 216
Ultrasound: ext. 209
Insurance: ext. 304
Billing: ext. 210
Physical Therapy: ext. 226