How do you take care during summer flares?
Lately summer has been kicking my butt with flares, mostly resulting in me being quite fatigued and uncomfortable sweaty each day. I've been doing my best to take care of myself during this season, but I'd love to know how all of you take care of yourself during a summer flare!
- Abigail, Team Member
I am finding that the heat just seems to zap every last bit of energy that I have. I have started going to bed earlier at night to allow my body more rest. It seems to help. Louisiana summers are no joke and this summer seems to be the worst between the extensive heat and the storms. Vickie W., Team Member
Same! Summer used to be my favorite season and I used to love the heat here in coastal Georgia, but now? Ugh. Is it fall yet?
How about now?
I avoid going outside between 10 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m. as much as possible. Use cooling towels when I can't avoid it. Cold snacks and meals. I don't run the dryer or oven during the day to help the thermostat out. Dress for comfort - loose sleeveless shirts/tanks, cotton shorts, t-shirt dresses, etc. Running my wrists under cold water for a minute or two helps. Also, a clay ice pack (ThermiPaq, I got mine at Walgreens) that I put on my desk in front of my keyboard to rest my wrists on makes a huge difference too.
Otherwise, rest when needed.
Is it fall yet?I did some research a while back (last year I think) and found an article that rated multiple different brands. Some where only available at places like Ulta, and with a higher price tag. I chose Neutrogena because it's easy to find, affordable, and I trust the brand. I stuck with it because of the texture and lack of heavy scent. I can't find the link to the article but you could probably search in-shower moisturizer comparison and find it, for a list of the different brands. Good luck! 
Thank you so much for sharing what has worked for you. I have found a brand local to me and will pick it up next week. Wishing you an itch-free day. -Clair Psoriatic-Arthritis.com moderator
Hello
, I'm on the fence with this one right now. Everyone is hating this heat, not me. I am having the worst flare I have had in 20 years, derm said I'm 80% covered. I am welcoming this heat. I'm in so much pain that the heat is not bothering me at all, it's comforting to me. I have PsA also which is under control with Methotrexate. The cool months hurt me so badly even when I'm not flaring. I don't like cold at all. We are all so different. Thanks for sharing this. Diane (Team Member) Pray for fall. Lol
right!? It's right around the corner... -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
