Struggling with AOSD and worsening joint pain - #8284

Adult-onset Still's Disease (AOSD) is indeed a complex autoimmune condition that can have periods of flare-ups and remission. While AOSD can become a lifelong condition for some, many patients experience remissions, with a range of treatment approaches available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. First, it's important to recognize that while NSAIDs and corticosteroids are standard treatments for managing inflammation and pain associated with AOSD, there are also other therapeutic options available. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate or biologic medications like tocilizumab or anakinra may be considered, especially if your symptoms are not well-controlled with your current regimen. Discuss with your rheumatologist the possibility of adjusting your treatment plan if you are still experiencing significant flare-ups. In terms of lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms, consider the following: 1. Regular gentle exercise: Aim for low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or walking to maintain joint mobility without aggravating inflammation. Physical therapy may also be beneficial to personalize an exercise regime tailored to your needs. 2. Diet: Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish) could be helpful. Some patients find that reducing processed foods and sugars helps with overall inflammation. 3. Stress management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises can be useful for managing stress, which may trigger flare-ups. Regarding your frequent sore throats and extreme fatigue, it’s important to consider that these symptoms can indeed be related to AOSD or other overlapping conditions. Given the systemic nature of AOSD, chronic fatigue can occur, but recurrent sore throats may also indicate other infections or conditions. It would be prudent to discuss these symptoms with your physician to evaluate whether further testing is needed, such as checking for additional autoimmune conditions or possible infections. As for the use of corticosteroids, while they are effective for managing inflammation, long-term use can have side effects such as osteoporosis, weight gain, and increased risk for infections. Your doctor should regularly assess the risks and benefits of steroids in your treatment plan. Discussing a tapering strategy when your disease is stable or considering alternative therapies may be viable options. Ultimately, working closely with your healthcare team, including a rheumatologist, is essential for monitoring your condition and modifying your treatment plan as needed. Ensure to follow up regularly and communicate any changes in your symptoms or concerns regarding your current medications and overall management strategy. This collaborative approach will help you achieve better long-term control of AOSD and improve your quality of life.