Yes, absolutely — feeling achy is one of the hallmark experiences of an RA flare. Many people describe it as a deep, bone-level ache that goes beyond typical joint pain.
A myRAteam member described it well: feeling like they were "being run over by a truck that's on fire" — total fatigue, throbbing, burning, and swelling Show Full Answer
Yes, absolutely — feeling achy is one of the hallmark experiences of an RA flare. Many people describe it as a deep, bone-level ache that goes beyond typical joint pain.
A myRAteam member described it well: feeling like they were "being run over by a truck that's on fire" — total fatigue, throbbing, burning, and swelling all at once. Another said it feels like the flu, minus the fever. Common symptoms during a flare can include:
- Deep joint aching and stiffness
- Swollen or tender joints
- Extreme fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- A general "coming down with something" feeling
- Appetite loss
The intensity can vary from person to person and even flare to flare. Some people experience manageable discomfort, while others find it completely debilitating.
It's always a good idea to contact your rheumatologist when a flare starts — they can adjust treatment to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term joint damage.
August 30
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