As a rheumatologist with over a decade of experience in the field of arthritis, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what causes a flare-up of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation in one or more of your joints. This inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. There are various types of arthritis, with the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Flare-ups can be triggered by a number of factors:


1. Physical Overuse: Intensive physical activity or overuse of a joint can lead to a flare-up by causing additional stress and wear on the joint.


2. Injury: An injury to a joint, even a minor one, can trigger an inflammatory response that may exacerbate arthritis symptoms.


3. Infection: In some cases, an infection in or near the joint can cause a flare-up.


4. Weather Changes: Some people with arthritis report that changes in barometric pressure, humidity, or temperature seem to affect their symptoms.


5. Stress: Psychological stress can lead to physical tension, which may worsen arthritis pain.


6. Poor Sleep: Lack of restorative sleep can lead to increased pain sensitivity and a higher likelihood of experiencing a flare-up.

7.
Weight Gain: Additional body weight can put more pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, potentially leading to a flare-up.

8.
Medications: Sometimes, certain medications or a change in dosage can lead to a flare-up.

9.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain illnesses, such as anemia or thyroid disorders, can affect the immune system and contribute to arthritis flare-ups.

10.
Lack of Exercise: Ironically, a lack of regular exercise can also lead to a flare-up because the muscles around the joints may weaken, leading to less support and increased joint stress.

It's important to note that triggers can vary greatly from person to person, and what causes a flare-up in one individual may not affect another. Identifying and managing these triggers is a key part of managing arthritis symptoms.

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Fatigue. ��Overexertion can trigger rheumatoid arthritis inflammation, increase fatigue, and trigger a rheumatoid arthritis flare. ... It showed that fatigue is caused by both physical and psychological factors. Chemicals called cytokines have been shown to promote inflammation and also cause fatigue in people with RA.read more >>