All questions about Rheumatoid arthritis

What is a flare?

A flare is when symptoms get a lot worse and harder to control, in the whole body or specific joints. Flares can be short or long, mild or severe.

The full answer, with the sources, is in the guide.

Sources

• NRAS: Managing RA symptoms and flares
• NHS: Rheumatoid arthritis, overview
• US National Institutes of Health (NIAMS): Rheumatoid arthritis

Reviewed 2026-11-09 · next review 2027-11-09