I am reminded yet again that I am, in fact, chronically ill. Over the past few months I have enjoyed more than a few days where I was virtually no pain. There was still some, but it was very easily manageable. And then late last week, BAM! Flare up. Now, this flare up did not have me bed ridden, but it did severely limit the plans I could make and the things I could do. I’m thankful it didn’t render me such, but it was a lot more pain that I had become accustomed to over the period of decreased pain.
This period came as a result of staying on top of my medications and moving my body regularly. I even got a gym membership to aid in this. I haven’t gone as often as I could have, but I still went and moved my body more often than before. The gym has given me a way to move my body that I don’t hate. Considering I hate the way sweating feels (hello, neurodivergent problems), that’s a big deal.
Unfortunately, as seems to happen to almost anyone when they are feeling good for a change, I started forgetting to take meds, especially my morning ones. I didn’t forget every day, but over the course of a week, I missed more than a few. Between that and the rapid changes in the weather - a flare up ensued.
I’m OK… I’m taking my medications consistently again, and just to be on the safe side, I added another day of going to the gym each week so I can get more cardio in, as that seems to the be type of exercise that helps to manage my pain most effectively.
It is so easy to forget about things like chronic pain and illness when your good days start to outnumber the bad, even after living with it for several years. It really surprised me how quickly and easily I fell out of the healthy habits that had me feeling as good as I did. I’ve learned some lessons with this experience, that I can be sure of.
The good news is this flare up happened when I was going on to a week’s vacation from work. I was able to focus on things to help myself without having to worry about work being in the mix as well. I am immensely grateful for that. It has also allowed me to do some research and reassess my gym routine and do the mental and physical self care necessary to get me through a flare.
I’m on the tail end of it now, with a couple of gym workouts under my belt as well. I’m still feeling pain, but it is much improved compared to earlier in the week. At this juncture, I do not want to end up the same way again! I need to remember my pain is chronic, meaning it’s not gonna go away forever. There will always be good and bad days, and I have the tools to have as many good days as possible.
Good job, girl.
Good days are wonderful but also very easy to forget to take meds...I totally get that.
Glad you're on top of it again.