Winter And Arthritis: Can Cold Temperatures Worsen Symptoms?

Arthritis refers to the inflammation and swelling of one or more joints, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. It is not one disease but comprises groups of diseases that affect different parts of the body, including the heart, skin, eyes, and more.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis. Therefore, one must work towards reducing pain and inflammation to help the joints keep functioning effectively. Additionally, it is crucial to watch out for any triggers that may worsen or flare up the symptoms. For some people, cold temperatures during the winter could be a reason.

Common Symptoms Of Arthritis

According to Dr Chandra Sekhar Dannana, Senior Consultant-Orthopaedics, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, the two most prevalent types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each with distinct symptoms and underlying causes.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects 15% of the global population above the age of 30, according to a study published in The Lancet Rheumatology. While its symptoms develop slowly, they can worsen over time. These include:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Joint tenderness
• Swelling
• Lack of flexibility in the joints
• Popping or cracking sounds
• Bone spurs (bony lumps that grow on the edges of the bones)

While symptoms remain the same for Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA), the cause behind the condition differs from that of OA. RA is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, confusing them with foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. On the other hand, OA is a result of the daily wear and tear of joints.

Can Winter Worsen Arthritis Symptoms?

Dr Dannana said, “The impact of cold temperatures on arthritis symptoms is a subject of anecdotal evidence, and while not universally experienced, many individuals report worsened symptoms during colder weather.”

According to him, several factors may contribute to this phenomenon.

“Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, potentially reducing blood flow to the joints. Reduced blood flow can exacerbate stiffness and discomfort, particularly in individuals with pre-existing circulation issues,” he explained, adding that cold weather may lead to increased muscle tension around joints, intensifying pain and discomfort.

Moreover, changes in barometric pressure, which often accompany weather shifts, can also affect individuals with arthritis. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that in 200 people with knee OA, pain levels increased with every 10-degree drop in temperature.

How To Manage Arthritis Pain

While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed with regular physical activity, which involves indulging in low-impact exercises and maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints, said Dr Dannana.

You can also perform hot and cold therapy using warm compresses or cold packs. If the symptoms persist, you can consult your doctor for over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription drugs that can help manage the pain.

Additionally, one can use assistive devices and adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoiding smoking, for arthritis management. Physical therapy can improve joint function, and regular consultations with healthcare professionals can help monitor and adjust treatment plans as needed, the doctor concluded.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/can-cold-temperatures-in-winter-worsen-arthritis-symptoms-1703153915