Flare-Proof Fall: Managing Autoimmune Conditions as Temperatures Drop

As the crisp air of September rolls in, many people welcome the beauty of autumn leaves, cozy sweaters, and warm drinks.

But if you live with an autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, or multiple sclerosis, the change in season can feel less magical.

Cooler temperatures, shifting routines, and even subtle changes in daylight can trigger flare-ups or worsen symptoms.

The good news? With the right strategies, you can step into fall feeling supported, prepared, and resilient.

To help you enjoy the fall season, we’ve prepared a checklist of practical, proven ways to help you keep your condition stable and your life on track as the seasons shift.

1. Stick to Your Biologic Therapy Routine

One of the most important things you can do this fall is to stay consistent with your biologic therapy. If you receive in-office infusions, missing or delaying doses can put you at greater risk of flares.

If your schedule is changing with the back-to-school season, holidays, or travel, ensure your infusion appointments are firmly on your calendar.

If you encounter scheduling conflicts, contact your care team promptly—they can often adjust or help you find solutions to ensure your treatment remains uninterrupted.

Remember, your biologic therapy works best when it’s consistent.

2. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Cooler evenings can sometimes help you sleep better, but shorter days may also disrupt your natural rhythm.

Poor sleep is a known trigger for autoimmune flare-ups. To help prevent these, focus on creating a restful sleep environment:

• Go to bed and wake up at roughly the exact times each day.
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
• Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before bed.
• Try gentle relaxation practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or warm herbal tea before bedtime.

Even minor improvements in your sleep quality can strengthen your immune system and help reduce inflammation.

And while sleep restores your energy from the inside, movement and warmth can protect your body from the outside.

3. Care for Your Joints and Muscles

Fall often means cooler, damper weather, which can aggravate joint stiffness or muscle pain.

Protect your body by:

• Dress in layers and keep your extremities warm.
• Doing gentle stretching, yoga, or water-based exercise can keep joints flexible and reduce discomfort.
• If fatigue or stiffness slows you down, pace your activities and allow yourself time to rest.

4. Support Your Gut and Diet

For conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, certain foods may pose challenges.

It’s natural to crave comfort foods in fall, but a few small considerations can help your gut stay calm and steady:

• Pay attention to foods that trigger symptoms and opt for seasonal produce that supports your health, such as squash, apples, and root vegetables.
• Avoid overprocessed foods.
• Staying hydrated, especially as cooler weather may mask your thirst, is also key.

5. Communicate with Your Care Team

Fall can bring new stressors, from new school routines to holiday planning.

Stress is a major flare trigger, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Stay connected with your healthcare providers and inform them if you notice any new or worsening symptoms.

Effective communication ensures that your team can help you adjust treatment or provide extra support before things escalate.

6. Make Stress Management Part of Your Routine

Stress can sneak in as the days grow shorter. Build stress-busting activities into your daily routine, whether that’s journaling, walking in nature, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness.

Think of these practices as just as essential as your medications; they keep your mind and body in balance.

Embrace Fall with Confidence

September doesn’t have to mean more flares.

Above all, remember that your biologic therapy is your foundation, keep those infusion appointments a priority, and lean on your care team for guidance.

This season, give yourself the gift of preparation and self-compassion. You deserve to feel steady, supported, and strong, no matter what the weather brings.