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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

When to call the doctor about a flare-up...

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Imperial, MO

When I saw my rheumy about 3 weeks ago he told me to be sure to call for Prednisone if I have a flare. I have been having one for about 2 weeks now, but I don't know if it is bad enough to take the Prednisone. How do you determine if you are hurting enough to call your rheumy?

December 28, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members shared deeply personal experiences about deciding when to call their rheumatologist during a flare, with most agreeing that waiting... Read more

Members shared deeply personal experiences about deciding when to call their rheumatologist during a flare, with most agreeing that waiting two weeks is too long and encouraging each other to reach out sooner rather than later. Several members described practical approaches they use, including pain scales (with 8-10 being call-worthy), keeping prednisone on hand with tapering instructions from their doctor, trying home remedies first (ice, heat, CBD, stretching), and watching for warning signs like extreme fatigue or inability to perform daily tasks like opening jars or writing. A recurring theme was the tension between wanting relief and hesitating to call due to concerns about prednisone's side effects (weight gain, moon face, insomnia, cataracts), cost of appointments, or feeling like the pain might improve on its own, with the community ultimately emphasizing that doctors are there to help and that uncontrolled pain can lead to further joint damage.

A myRAteam Member

Even though I'm under control, my rheumy puts me on 4 mg of Medrol for over the winter. It helps because of the weather.

December 29, 2018
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member
Glad you called. My want to ask your RA doctor for a prescription for prednisone just to keep on hand. I usually go on a higher dose then tapper back down the next day by 5mg until I get back to mtmy regular dose. Hope you feel better quickly. Hugs

December 28, 2018
A myRAteam Member

My answer to that is when the pain and stiffness gets bad enough to cancel your plans , it is time to help yourself to some relief. Remember that pain is a symptom. Stopping pain doesn't stop the damage caused by RA. I say make yourself comfortable as you need to be.

December 28, 2018
A myRAteam Member

I have after I reach my '10' on the scale and have tried everything in my arsenal of meds, lotions, creams, ice, heat, CBD, and stretches. When I hit the point where I can't take anymore and hurt too much to cry is when I do. I think you have to when you think it's time. Everyone has their limit in a flare. You do what's best for you Pat. If I was going thru week 2 of a flare I would call but that's me. Best of luck to you and hope you start feeling better soon.

December 28, 2018
A myRAteam Member

I'm glad you called. Im bad at calling too. I don't call for another reason. I belong to a weight loss group and am the head weight recorder. I try not to gain weight. I'm supposed to be the head motivator there. Prednisone turns me into Willy Wonka's blueberry girl Violet (haha) I look like a puffed up marshmallow girl. So I grin and bear it. Hope you're feeling better.

December 30, 2018

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