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DiscussionAny relation between flareups and stress?
Autoimmune Diseases | Last Active: Apr 23 10:41pm | Replies (16)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Thank you so much for your information!!! It was extremely helpful for me!!!"
I will join the party - YES. I have fibro, a hyper-reactive inflammatory system, asthma, arthritis, and Bronchiectasis (a lung condition).
Two things trip my triggers more than anything else - stress and hyper-activity. By that I mean failing to listen to that tiny voice that says "enough", "stop" or "Say No." Like @kgitti, I have far less energy than I believe I should.
I have attended the pain management clinic offered by my health care system, and learned many coping skills. The guided meditation and relaxation have dropped my stress levels no matter what else is happening - as long as I take the time to do them. Individualized PT to create a personal stretching, strengthening and exercise plan - and following it has eased my pain. The daily airway clearance, for life, that I must do to avoid lung infections made me angry and stressed, but one-on-one counselling to understand and accept that this is my life has been another key.
For 3 weeks, I was rushing headlong into a huge flare, and potential respiratory issues as I pursued my many interests. Sunday, I sat down and said "Nope, done!" Back to self-care so I don't land on the couch again - so for 3 days I have carefully monitored/limited my activities. Tonight I can touch a few of my worst trigger points without wincing, so maybe I averted it this time.
Sue