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