Although the summer season hasn’t officially come to a close just yet, it’s important to know that autumn is just around the corner. As you’re surely aware, temperatures are about to drop. During the colder months of the year, arthritis sufferers find that the symptoms of their conditions are exacerbated. Unfortunately, cooler temperatures can make daily life more challenging for those who already battle joint pain and stiffness.
How can autumn’s colder temperatures worsen arthritis symptoms?
Worsened joint stiffness and pain.
It’s widely known that cold temperatures and stiffness go hand in hand. They cause the tissues surrounding the joints to contract, leading to tighter and less flexible joints. When the fall weather arrives, it will be important for arthritis sufferers to both stay warm and maintain daily activity. The combination of cold and inactivity can make it difficult to move. Not to mention, frigid temperatures reduce blood circulation to the extremities. This only worsens pain and discomfort. As a result, simple tasks like getting dressed or going for a walk can be challenging.
“Lower temperatures may lead to thickening of the synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints,” informs the Arthritis Foundation, “This thickening could lead to joint pain and stiffening. Bones and connective tissue in our bodies, like structures in our homes, become smaller or larger in response to changes in barometric pressure.”
Increased risk of falls.
As we all know, extreme cold begets icy sidewalks and other slippery surfaces. For those who contend with arthritis, it can already be challenging to maintain balance and coordination. Cold days make things worse. Arthritis sufferers report that they can feel weather changes because their joints become sore and achy. A decrease in barometric pressure causes the tissues in the body to expand. This puts additional pressure on already inflamed joints. As a result, the fall season can increase the risk of falls.
“Individuals living with arthritis should take precautionary measures to ensure their safety when venturing outdoors in the winter,” alerts Arthritis Society Canada, “Some people with arthritis can have altered sensation due to underlying nerve or circulation problems such as neuropathy or Raynaud’s phenomenon, respectively. These individuals are more predisposed to frozen fingers, frostbite, and hypothermia.”
Poorer mental health.
Sometimes, the gloominess of a cold and cloudy autumn day is enough to cause depression and anxiety. However, for those who battle with arthritis, cooler temperatures encourage them to stay indoors. As we’ve outlined, the cold worsens pain and reduced mobility. Often, this results in social isolation. Arthritis sufferers also often contend with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
“Cold winter weather and shorter daylight hours trigger an emotional response called seasonal affective disorder, increasing feelings of depression and isolation,” reports rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient advocate, Eileen Davidson for CreakyJoints, “This, in turn, may intensify the perception of pain and discomfort from RA symptoms.”
Contact Senior Homecare by Angels for support.
We proudly offer Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Support Services. If an aging loved one in your family is suffering from arthritis or osteoarthritis, it’s likely that he or she is in need of some type of support. Among other things, our experienced caregivers can provide meaningful engagement, transportation, pick up groceries, help with meal preparation and offer hygiene assistance. We also have a full range of support services including physical therapy and massage, exercise and occupational therapy.
To learn more, please don’t hesitate to call us at 403-862-0129 or if outside of Calgary, toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit our Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple contact form!