The things that make me go ouch

I recently started thinking about some of the factors that contribute to my Rheumatoid Arthritis flares so wanted to share a list.

1. Weather – Growing up in Chicago and then moving to warmer climates, I’ve learned that cold weather is not my friend.
2. Mornings – A hot shower really does wonders and helps combat morning stiffness.
3. Missing my medication because my pharmacy never seems to be able to connect w/ my doctor. Not to mention, it took a few weeks to get insurance approval for my medication at the beginning of the year due to an Enbrel price increase. All while I was 5 months pregnant and in the middle of a cross country move. Yeah, that sucked!
4. STRESS – This is a huge contributor to pain. I’m talking two parallel lines on a non existent bar chart.
5. My period – My joints always get extra achy at that time of the month.
6. Overdoing it – When I decide I want to clean the house top to bottom, there is typically a price to pay.
7. Lack of sleep – This one’s really not fair considering RA keeps me up at night and then the fatigue just continues in a vicious cycle. Benadryl IS my friend.
8. The flu – Getting sick when you have RA is the worst because, #autoimmune
9. Eating a bunch of crap food – I have a love affair with chocolate peanut butter ice cream, bagels, chips & dip and lately, Oreos – Halloween stuffed for her pleasure. Moderation is key.
10. Super intense workouts – I learned the hard way that cross fit is not for everyone. Yoga, pilates, walking & light runs are more my speed.

What am I missing? What leads to your most intense flares?