Flare

Flare is a term used in medicine to describe an increase in disease activity or worsening of a patient's condition. This can occur in various diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and asthma. A flare can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, infection, or changes in medication.

Causes of Flares

Flares can be caused by a variety of factors. In some cases, they may be triggered by an infection or a change in medication. In other cases, they may be caused by stress or other environmental factors. It's also possible for a flare to occur without any apparent trigger.

Symptoms of Flares

The symptoms of a flare can vary depending on the disease. In rheumatoid arthritis, a flare may cause increased joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. In lupus, a flare may cause fatigue, joint pain, and rashes. In asthma, a flare may cause increased coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Treatment of Flares

The treatment of a flare will depend on the disease and the severity of the flare. In general, the goal of treatment is to reduce the severity of the symptoms and prevent further damage. This may involve increasing the dose of current medications, adding new medications, or making lifestyle changes.

Prevention of Flares

Preventing flares involves managing the disease and avoiding triggers. This may involve taking medications as prescribed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding stress and other potential triggers.

See Also

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Asthma

Flare Resources
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