Most forms of arthritis are chronic, which means treatment may last a lifetime. Some forms of arthritis only last for a short period of time and cause no long term problems.

People with some types of rheumatic disease, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis experience periods when their disease becomes worse and periods when it improves. A flare is the term used to describe the times when the disease is at its worst. Remission is the term used to describe the period of time when the symptoms of a disease improve or even disappear completely. No one can predict when or if symptoms will cease, or how long remission will last.

 

This CAREGiver Q&A has been provided by Arthritis Ireland. For more information please visit the Arthritis Care section of our website and download a copy of Caring for a Person with Arthritis.