Flares
How long was your longest flare? Is it normal for it to be years long?
I always have this same question! What exactly is a flare since I am in pain every day. What I have found is that it is different for everyone. A flare really is subjective and is a vast increase in pain. I have had severe flares before going on my current biologic to which I was in bed for 2 weeks, used a walker and cane for a month and was in PT for about 4 months. However, I just went on a long weekend vacation and over did it physically and had a flare for about a week. I have to say that flares length and severity have lessened being on 300 mg of cosentyx monthly. I measure mine by how much Motrin I have take and how much cbd lotion I have to use. That is my flare scale 🤭 
My flare was LONG - at 5+ years. I like to think that when my years' long severe pain and fatigue finally let up, I'd finally found the right treatment for SpA. I had so much pain, and could hardly walk prior to my current treatment plan. Now I am up and moving, severe enthesitis eased by 80%, and fatigue lessened quite a bit. I was in so much pain - am grateful for relief. Rebecca (comm advc) 
I’m so sorry! I don’t really think of flares in terms of years because by the very nature of this disease, it’s supposed to be chronic. But I do think my longest flare was for four months. It was just nonstop high level pain and fatigue daily. 
Hi
,
Unfortunately it is possible for last that long! When I was first diagnosed I was in a flare for about a year and a half, but it is possible that it was only that long because I was still waiting to get on medication and find one that worked for me.
Are you currently experiencing a pretty long flare like this at the moment?Sending love,
James (Community Member)to be honest I have been in constant pain for the last 3 years ( mornings are always the worst. Some days are definitely a lot worse, other days are more mild, but never pain free like I used to be. My range of motion is not as good as it once was. I don't quite understand if the pain I have is my new normal or if I'm in a flare. How do YOU tell? I'm in mother mode right now. I have been having kids or nursing them the last few years. I am currently trying to get pregnant right now, and I'm not taking any medications to help me symptoms. I am still trying to get a diagnosis, the only medication I have tried was celebrex, but I haven't had any success with that or Ibuprofen, naproxen ect. 
Hi @Smile_eyes
How are you feeling today? I am sorry you been in pain for so long. I can relate so much on the mornings being the hardest. I feel like my body at night doesn't move much and that's when it can become worse. Are you able to get some good night's sleep?I know for some a flare can be different. I know for me I call a flare when my symptoms start to get worse. Start to feel worse than the usual day. I hope you can feel better soon with some relief. Sending you hugs,
Nicky (Team Member)
