Weather and Increased Pain

Hi All~

I live in the Pacific Northwest, (Washington state)USA. Each year about this time my pain level go berserk! No amount of pain meds seem to help. My thought was it's the changing weather but that seems to to be an old-wives-tale. When I was talking to my PCP he said, "It's likely the change in weather, barometric pressure, from summer to fall". I was a bit surprised but this Doc. is so good, compassionate and level-headed. I have no reason not to believe him.

So... what's the remedy for this type of pain. I try to keep warm, keep moving much of the day and have my relax-with-a-book time. It's frustrating since there is nothing physical you can address.

**************
I found some interesting reading on the arthritis site.
https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/tools-resources/weather/

People with arthritis often claim they can predict the weather, based on their joint pain level, and with good reason. Studies show a variety of weather factors can increase pain, especially changes. Watch for any changes in:

Barometric pressure (especially falling)
Temperature (especially lowering)

A study from Tufts University in 2007 found that every 10-degree drop in temperature corresponded with an incremental increase in arthritis pain. In addition, relatively low barometric pressure, low temperatures and precipitation can increase pain. Researchers aren’t sure why this happens. They suspect certain atmospheric conditions increase swelling in the joint capsule.

Source: The Arthritis Index is based on a proprietary forecast by the meteorologists at www.AccuWeather.com.

********
"Arthritis affects everything else within the joint itself, including the joint lining, which we call the synovium, as well as the ligaments that are within the joint," Dr. James Gladstone, co-director of sports medicine at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, told weather.com. "All of those tissues have nerve endings in them, so they're going to feel changes in the weather as tightness in the joint, or stiffness."
************

If you have an idea or opinion on this topic please take the Poll and feel free to add comments.

Warmly.
Chutz

************

One thing I've noticed...in summer, it's easier for me to stay hydrated. As soon as the temperatures cool though, I'm less likely to drink enough water. Dehydration has a definite effect on my joints...as Seashell mentioned synovial fluid, perhaps I'm limiting that by not taking in as much water.

I usually take Advil for joint pain (unless it's my hips, Aleve seems to help them more). I've also found a decongestant to be helpful as my sinuses are sensitive to weather changes. Maybe it's just in my head (no pun intended) but I swear it helps the rest, too!

Built in barometer, for sure!

As soon as the weather starts getter cooler my breathing becomes more labored, But once the weather stays at a cooler temp 50' to 60' I feel a lot better. I really think it has to do with the humidity being much lower.