Many people with arthritis and other joint conditions have noticed that their symptoms seem to worsen in damp or humid weather. It’s not just a coincidence – there are scientific reasons behind the link between humidity and joint pain.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is Humidity?

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. When the air is humid, it contains a higher percentage of water vapor. Humidity can vary depending on the climate, the season, and the location of the area.

How Humidity Affects Joints

For people with joint pain, humidity can make their symptoms worse. This is because the excess moisture in the air can cause swelling in the joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness.

When it is humid, our bodies cannot efficiently evaporate sweat which makes people feel warmer and uncomfortable. Since joints are already sensitive and painful, additional heat may increase the tension leading to worse suffering.

Humidity may also cause joints to contract and cramp up, since the soft tissues around the joints are more sensitive to changes in moisture levels. These contractions can be incredibly painful, especially for people with conditions like arthritis.

Why Does Humidity Affect Joints?

The science behind how humidity affects joints boils down to pressure and the amount of lubrication in-between bones. When it is humid, the air already has high moisture level which could prevent your body from sweating.

When your body cannot effectively remove heat from your parts, they end up swelling making the joints more swollen. The soft tissue surrounding the joint, known as the synovial membrane, can become inflamed and irritated. Combined with the swelling in the joint, this can lead to continuous pain.

Additionally, high humidity levels can reduce the amount of synovial fluid that lubricates the joints and prevents friction between the bones.

This lack of lubrication, combined with the added pressure on the joints from the swelling and inflammation, can cause joint pain and stiffness.

There isn’t a straightforward answer to this question since not everyone suffers from joint pain in the same way, nor does the treatment work the same for everyone.

However, there are some essential tips that could help relieve humidity-related joint pain:.

Stay in Air-Conditioned Environments

If you suffer from humidity-related joint pain, it’s best to stay in air-conditioned environments. Air conditioning lowers the moisture level in the air, reducing the pressure on your joints and relieving the swelling.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water, irrespective of the humidity levels, keeps your body hydrating and helps maintain good health. Staying hydrated can help lubricate your joints, reducing the effects of humidity on your joint pain symptoms.

Apply Heat or Cold to the Affected Area

Depending on the diagnosis, heat and/or cold therapy could help relieve the symptoms temporarily. Heating pads or taking hot showers can help manage stiffness, while cold therapeutic items like ice packs can help alleviate pain.

It is important to understand which therapy is best for you from your doctor or practitioners.

Exercise

Moving your body can help increase blood flow across your joints and stretch the muscles, to alleviate joint pain. It is important to choose low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga that do not put pressure on your affected joints.

You can consult with your doctor to decide which one is best for you.

Use Anti-inflammatory Treatments

If your joint pain is bothering you consistently, you may need to opt for over-the-counter or prescribed nonsteroidal pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or aspirin) or topical solutions.

Speak to your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it is safe for you.

Conclusion

Humidity is one of the many environmental factors that can have a massive impact on joint pain for people who experience it.

While you may not be able to control the humidity or the weather, it is important to understand the various ways it can impact your body and take the necessary actions to manage your symptoms better.