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How a rheumatoid arthritis flare up begins: symptoms and treatment 


Are you experiencing constant pain in your joints? Discover how to identify the early signs of a rheumatoid arthritis flare up and how to treat it to improve your quality of life. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune, inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints but can also damage other tissues. There's no cure for rheumatoid arthritis however early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the time between flare ups. Understanding how a flare up begins, what symptoms to watch for, and how to treat it can make all the difference in managing this condition. Keep reading to learn more.

Rheumatoid arthritis: how does a flare up begin?

The onset of a rheumatoid arthritis flare up can vary, but the most common symptoms typically include:
 
  • Persistent joint pain, especially in hands, knees, and wrists
  • Visible inflammation accompanied by redness and tenderness to touch
  • Morning stiffness that can last for hours, making daily activities difficult
  • Extreme fatigue and mild fever, which often precede joint pain
Early rheumatoid arthritis inflammation is symmetrical, meaning it affects the same joints on both sides of the body. This distinguishes it from other types of arthritis. Discover the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis here.
An elderly man and woman practicing yoga outdoors, engaging in gentle movements for arthritis relief.

Why seek medical attention for rheumatoid arthritis?

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice from your GP as soon as possible. An early diagnosis by your GP or rheumatologist can prevent serious complications, such as joint deformities or loss of mobility. Blood tests and X-rays help confirm the diagnosis and allow for a personalised treatment plan.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

Your treatment will usually involve care from your GP and several different specialists. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage. Options may include:

Medication

It is essential that any medication is always recommended by a GP, doctor or healthcare professional as each patient has specific needs. Medicines for rheumatoid arthritis are available to help control the condition and also to relieve pain. Among the most common options are: 
 
  • Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD): Help delay the progression of the condition
  • Biological treatments: Newer form of treatment, usually in combination with DMARD, to help control the progression
  • JAK inhibitors: Newer type of medicine for adults with moderate or severe to help control the progression
  • Paracetamol or codeine: To relive pain associated with the condition
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID): Reduce pain and inflammation in the joints
  • Corticosteroids: Useful for controlling severe flares, although their use must be strictly supervised by a healthcare professional due to potential side effects

Actimove supports for arthritis

Actimove offers a range of drug-free products designed for people with rheumatoid arthritis, providing support and relief during painful episodes. The Actimove supports from the Arthritis Care range combine therapeutic warmth and compression to support improved blood flow and mobility. Featured products include:

Actimove Arthritis Care Knee Support
Arthritis Care

Actimove Arthritis Care Knee Support

Soothing knee support for arthritis designed with therapeutic warming technology to provide pain relief in the knee joint.

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Actimove Arthritis Care Wrist Support
Arthritis Care

Actimove Arthritis Care Wrist Support

Comfortable wrist support for arthritis providing light compression and soothing warmth to help pain relief.

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Actimove Arthritis Care Arthritis Gloves
Arthritis Care

Actimove Arthritis Care Arthritis Gloves

Comfortable warmth and compression to support pain relief and management of arthritis in the hands. 

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Actimove Arthritis Care Elbow Support
Arthritis Care

Actimove Arthritis Care Elbow Support

Features soothing warmth to help relieve pain and provide comfortable compression to reduce swelling. 

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Physical therapy and exercise

A program of moderate exercises, designed by a physical therapist, can help improve mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce the impact of the condition. Actimove Arthritis Care supports are designed to aid mobility and may be suitable for use during certain types of exercise, based on individual needs and in line with therapist guidance.
 
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that requires constant attention and a comprehensive approach to management. Identifying the early symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional, and using special arthritis support products are key steps to improving quality of life with this condition.

Further information

For further information regarding symptoms, treatment and support visit the NHS England website and the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) website.

Discover the Arthritis Care range

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References

  • Mayo Clinic. (2023). Rheumatoid Arthritis. Read more.
  • Medical News Today. (2021). Tips for dealing with rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups. Read more.
  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (n.d.). Rheumatoid arthritis: Understanding a difficult joint disease. Read more.
  • NHS website for England, Health A-Z, Conditions A-Z, Sprains and strains. Page last reviewed: 8 March 2023. Last accessed: 19 January 2026. Access here.

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