Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
January 23
 · 
Reactions
MyLupusTeam

Does cold weather make your lupus symptoms worse?

Yes, many people with lupus notice their symptoms worsen in cold weather. You're definitely not alone in experiencing this.

Cold temperatures can trigger painful flare-ups because blood vessels constrict to try keeping your body warm. This can lead to:

* Increased joint Show Full Answer

Does cold weather make your lupus symptoms worse?

Yes, many people with lupus notice their symptoms worsen in cold weather. You're definitely not alone in experiencing this.

Cold temperatures can trigger painful flare-ups because blood vessels constrict to try keeping your body warm. This can lead to:

* Increased joint stiffness and pain
* More severe pain in both large and small joints
* Muscle spasms
* Heightened sensitivity to pain

A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I have pain in all of my joints, no matter if they are large or small joints. They all hurt all the time, but rainy and sleeting days are the worst."

Some people with lupus also have Raynaud's phenomenon, which causes blood vessels to narrow even more in cold temperatures, restricting blood flow to hands and feet.

Here are some ways to help manage cold-weather symptoms:

* Wear layers of clothing to regulate body temperature
* Use heating pads or warm compresses on painful joints
* Stay active indoors to keep joints moving
* Dress warmly before going outside
* Keep your home at a comfortable temperature

If the pain becomes severe or significantly impacts your daily life, talk with your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan.

January 23
A MyLupusTeam Member

Definitely yes, cold temperatures have always been a precursor of severe flares for me😞

January 27
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, winter is my worse time. Heating pads and under blankets.

January 27
A MyLupusTeam Member

Bundle up and stay warm, Retonda! That helps me tremendously in the winter, when I also have more pain.

January 24
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes! I use heating pad seems to help. But if you are like me..I'm cold one minute and burning up the next so frustrating!

January 23

Related Questions

View All
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Puyallup, WA

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Paton, IA

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Newquay, UK