What does a flare look like for you?
Hello. I am going through the process of testing for a possible diagnosis. I had previously been diagnosed with RA due to blood test results but have never really had small joint problems. For the past 3 years or so I have been having events that pretty much disable me from doing most activities. I will start to get a little pain and stiffness in my lower back and then suddenly, overnight, I will wake up and barely be able to move. It sometimes takes 10 minutes to get out of bed. I can't put on socks or wear anything but shoes that slip on. Getting up and sitting down are very difficult. The last "event" I had lasted a little over a week and I was unable to stand up straight without support and/or walk standing up straight. It was the worst. I had been attributing these back events to other reasons, since I was told 10 years ago that based on my blood test results that I didn't have ankylosing spondylitis, but am now wondering if they might be a flare. Anyone else have similar experiences?
Flares slow me down. I cant walk with the speed and agilitys on the days im having flares, im more irritable and I just dont want to move.
It is a challenge, both mentally and physically, when we want our bodies to work like they used to. I hate the feeling of being slowed down! Here's an article about coping when you body changes due to AS. The author, one of our health leaders says, "If my AxSpA has taught me anything, it’s that the only constant in this life is change." All the best, Kathy (Team member)
Overall body pain intensifies and compromised parts of the body through surgery or accident is magnified.
Feet are affected with more pain, primarily the toes.
Chest and upper back become sore.
“I whistle through my teeth and spit, I will survive”When the whole body tightens up and those old injury or surgery areas get amplified, that's a different kind of pain. But that attitude, ‘I will survive’, is the attitude anyone going through something like this needs to make it through those rough days. I hope you've been able to find relief and your days are better ahead. Kindly, Latoya (Team Member)
tired/weak and lots of pain
Just horrible at times.
I an so sorry you are going through this. Do you have the support you need when you are in the midst of a flare? Warmly, Kathy (Team member)
