The term “flare-up” is used to describe the sudden onset of aggravated symptoms. Although I’m medicated for Cushing’s disease, I still have significant flare-ups. Often, they’ll happen when I overexert myself, fail to rely on my mobility aids, or overestimate how good I feel. I also have flare-ups during medication changes, when I’m dehydrated, and, sadly, sometimes just because. I wish there was a map so I could avoid them, but the truth is they are simply part of being chronically ill.