Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, such as the fingers, wrist, knees, ankles, etc. Other symptoms include joint stiffness, swelling in one or more joints some cases coupled with high fever and fatigue. This type of inflammation can be painful and debilitating. Up to 14 million people around the world have rheumatoid arthritis according to the World Health Organization, 2021. RA patients are often prescribed medications to reduce pain and stiffness during winter months when cold weather can aggravate symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can have a major impact on daily life, from being able to get out of bed in the morning and complete tasks around the house all day or at work or school. The goal of this post is to provide helpful tips for caring for chronic condition during the cold season so you can stay active without pain or discomfort.

The following blog post will discuss what rheumatoid arthritis is, how it’s treated, some precautions people with RA have to take during winter months, as well as various rheumatoid arthritis doctor-advised strategies that may help decrease joint pain from RA in colder climates:

Arthritic patients experience much pain in daily activities, a comprehensive rheumatoid arthritis treatment is critical to managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Natural rheumatoid arthritis treatment with an arthritis diet is essential to help relieve arthritis symptoms. Exercises are crucial to increase mobility and wellness in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

  • The cold weather and the potential for icy sidewalks and roads can be dangerous for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe during winter weather:
  • Dress warmly in layers while going outside. Make sure your coat is waterproof and your boots are good for walking in the cold weather or slippery or icy surfaces.
  • Avoid slippery surfaces whenever possible. Under unavoidable situations, take your time and be careful not to slip.
  • Stay active indoors. Try to do some light exercise every day, even if it’s just taking a brisk walk around the house or apartment complex.
  • Make sure to take arthritis pain relievers before going outside, especially if arthritis in your hands is severe.
  • Eat an adequately healthy meal before going out into cold weather. Overeating makes arthritis flare up and can leave you feeling sluggish and tired after being outdoors for any length of time.
  • The body temperature must remain warm enough during winters. For instance, wearing gloves while washing dishes, doing laundry, etc. will help your hands from getting too cold too quickly.
  • When it is very cold outside, warm up indoors first before venturing outside. Five to ten minutes of heating yourself with a hot shower or bath can make all the difference in how well you’ll be able to tolerate the cold.

Experiencing joint pain, stiffness or swelling in any joints of your body, despite of existing treatment plan?  Time to seek a second opinion from a rheumatologist! It’s not uncommon for those living with RA to need help caring for themselves during the winter months when temperatures drop drastically. If arthritis pain is making it difficult for you despite your regular arthritis treatment, make an appointment with your arthritis doctor right away. All you need to do is search for a rheumatoid doctor near me or arthritis doctor near me or the best rheumatologist near me. SeekMed is the one-stop solution for the best rheumatologist near me offering you accomplished rheumatoid doctors who will work with you to find the best treatment plan, prescriptions, testing procedures. Gain confidence and rest assured with medical second opinion provided by highly trained medical professionals with decades of experience supporting their decisions.