Do you find that you experience more aches and pains when the weather changes? If so, you’re not alone. Many people report feeling increased pain and discomfort when the temperature, barometric pressure, and/or humidity levels fluctuate.

In this Pain Bulletin, we’ll explore why these changes can affect your body, which conditions are most commonly impacted, and what you can do to alleviate your symptoms.

How Weather Changes Affect Your Body

Weather changes can affect your body in a number of different ways. Here are a few of the key factors:.

Barometric Pressure

Barometric pressure is the weight of the air around us, and it can influence the tissues in our bodies. When the pressure drops, the tissues can expand and put pressure on our joints and muscles. This can cause pain and discomfort.

On the other hand, when the pressure rises, it can cause the tissues to contract, which can also lead to pain.

Temperature

Temperature can also play a role in your pain levels. When it’s cold, your muscles and joints can become stiff and less flexible. This can make it more difficult to move, which can lead to pain.

On the other hand, when it’s hot, your body can become dehydrated and your muscles can cramp, which can also be painful.

Humidity

Humidity is a measure of how much water vapor is in the air. When it’s humid, the air can feel heavy and dense.

This can make it more difficult to breathe, especially for people with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It can also cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to pain and swelling.

Conditions that Are Most Commonly Impacted by Weather Changes

While anyone can experience pain and discomfort when the weather changes, there are some conditions that are particularly sensitive to these changes. Here are a few of the most common:.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Many people with arthritis report that they experience more pain when the weather changes.

In particular, changes in barometric pressure seem to be especially problematic.

Migraines

A migraine is a type of headache that is often accompanied by a sensitivity to light, noise, and/or smells.

Many people with migraines report that they are more likely to have an attack when the weather changes, especially when there are fluctuations in barometric pressure or temperature.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles and joints. People with fibromyalgia are often more sensitive to changes in weather, especially humidity and temperature.

What You Can Do to Alleviate Your Symptoms

If you experience pain and discomfort due to weather changes, there are some things you can do to alleviate your symptoms. Here are a few tips:.

Stay Hydrated

Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially when it’s hot or humid. Dehydration can make your muscles cramp and cause pain.

Stretch

Stretching can help improve your flexibility and reduce stiffness in your joints and muscles. Consider doing some gentle stretching exercises when you wake up in the morning or before you go to bed at night.

Use Heat or Cold

Applying heat or cold to your sore muscles and joints can be helpful. Try using a heating pad or taking a warm bath to relax your muscles when it’s cold outside. When it’s hot, use a cooling pad or a cold compress to help reduce inflammation.

Take Medication

If your symptoms are severe, you may need to take medication to help alleviate your pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Talk to your doctor about which medications might be right for you.

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help improve your overall health and reduce your pain levels. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day, like walking, swimming, or cycling.

Avoid Trigger Foods

If you have migraines or other types of headaches, some foods can trigger an attack. Common trigger foods include cheese, chocolate, and alcohol.

Try to avoid these foods and keep track of what you eat when you have a headache to help identify your triggers.

Conclusion

The weather can have a significant impact on your body, especially if you have a condition that makes you more sensitive to these changes. By following some of these tips, you can help alleviate your symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.