Can the grief of loosing a loved one cause a flare up?

Hi everyone. Last week my gradfather passed away who I was very close to. He had been ill for a long time with cancer and I am thankful he is no longer sufferin. However Im very upset and have a teary moment every so often as anyone would Im sure. The thing is- since the day after his funeral (fri) I hav been getting increasing pain EVERYWHERE! Not necessarily in my joint although my hands are very painful but every muscle in my body is aching  that its so hard to even get up! Is this normal? Its from head toe especially my back and legs. I don't want to complain to my doctor or rheumatologist but its hurting so bad! I don't know if it RA or not.

So sorry you lost your grandpop Lynny- I remember you saying he was near death. Stress can certainly cause a flare. Please tell your doctor. The last thing you need is to feel physically bad when you have so much emotional stuff going on. Hope your grief stricken heart is soon replaced with happier memories of your grandpop.

Im sorry about your loss too Lynny.

I believe stress does strange things to our mind and bodies, so I would'nt be surprised if it has set off a flare for you.

Try and look after yourself during this sad time (I know thats easier said than done).

Take care Lynny

Jo

Most definately stress can cause flare ups.    I lost my Dad in 2005 just eight days before Christmas, then five months later my brother passed away and a year after that my Mom.     After Dad passed I took care of my Mom till her passing and remember crying myself to sleep many nights because of the pain in my joints, as well as my aching heart.    Just three days before this Christmas my nephew's wife was killed in a terrible car accident and that set me back again.    The doctor has put me on an antidepresant, even though I do not feel depressed.  I mostly feel a lot of anxiety at times.     Our bodies respond to stress even though we don't always feel it.    I know, for me, my whole body tightens up when I'm under a lot of stress and I'm sure that adds to the joint pain.      If you continue to feel really sad or stressed it might not hurt to ask your primary for something to help till you can get through the mourning.         I miss my loved ones every day and life will certainly never be the same without them but I can now cling to some wonderful memories and my faith sustains me.     I hope your heart heals soon and you too will be able to dwell on the good times.     I'm sure your grandfather is watching over you.

all the best,

Alicat

I would say yes. My RA started when I lost my dear Mum 10 years ago and I still miss her. However, my RA is well managed, touch wood.