When I get these flareups (that can last for months) causing a large increase in the pain I have noticed that they are occurring during the summer months. Since 2002 this has been the case. Three years ago it started in June when the temps were constantly over 90 and the humidity not far behind. Two years ago June again. Last year it was in July. This year it was late May. And each time they have lasted until October or November when the temps and humidity go down. I just find that to be an interesting coincidence. Any one else notice this same kind of correlation for them?