For those of us living with a long-term health condition (visible or invisible), managing ourselves and our conditions becomes part of our routine.
One of the biggest challenges is avoiding and managing a flare.
Typically, during a flare our symptoms increase, these are further compounded by feeling exhausted and in pain (this can be physical and/or mental). By exhausted, I mean that you are unable or find it extremely challenging to do the simplest of things – for example: having a shower (something we all take for granted) takes an incredible amount of energy. So much so, that you need a rest afterwards; the same goes for getting dressed and preparing meals.
A flare can be brought on by:
* doing too much;
* periods of stress;
* getting an infection such as the flu, kidney infection etc.;
* environmental factors;
* eating the wrong foods;
* not taking your medication as prescribed.
And… sometimes a flare just happens for no apparent reason.
During a flare, self-care takes up a lot of energy and becomes a full-time job! However, there are things we can all do to help ourselves.
If this resonates with you, please share to help others and raise awareness 😊 Thank you!
Vanessa Vajana 