Hi Tina, stress affects everything so I would say yes, your flare up is from what you have just endured. I am sending you a huge hug. Our dog is by my side constantly and she frets if I am not there. Hope your flare up does not last long.

From when I stated WFH (due to Covid Pandemic) my stress level went down dramatically but when I used to work in the office, I had stress related flares (even if I didn't know what I had). I had pericarditis twice and a huge flare where I couldn't walk, lift a mug and even breathing was painful. I ended up in hospital but it was a positive as I had my diagnostic for RA during that time.

So sorry. And stress is a big factor when it come to flares. I learned this over time. I'm 53 diagnosed with RA 10 + years ago. In place last 4 years I've had almost back to back major life changing things happening and in those 4yrs everything with RA symptoms and deformities has gotten a lot worse. Life is better now but not RA. The major damage has been done. I have to purposely try to stay stress free which is easier said than done
Prayers coming your way.

I'm so sorry for your loss, as I don't know what I would without my constant companion. Yes, I do believe stress brings on all sorts of illnesses. So no doubt this is what you are experiencing. They have therapy groups for all sorts of losses. I would look into one, as they will understand.

So sorry, I had to put my best friend down a few years ago. I still cry over it. I know how hard that is. Then to have the flaps as well is so bad. Hope things get better.