As the winter chill sets in, it's not uncommon for seniors with arthritis to experience increased discomfort. However, distinguishing between a seasonal ache and a sign of worsening arthritis is crucial to managing your health. Equipped with the right information, seniors can take necessary actions to respond to any condition change.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. As we age, our risk of developing arthritis increases, with many seniors experiencing symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. It's normal for these symptoms to fluctuate, but a sustained change could signal that your arthritis is worsening.
How Cold Weather Affects Arthritis
You're not alone if your arthritis tends to act up when temperatures drop. A phenomenon termed "barometric pressure effect" explains how changes in weather can influence our bodies, particularly for those with arthritis. When the barometric pressure falls, as it usually does before the onset of winter, it can cause your joints to expand and result in added discomfort and pain. This weather-induced aggravation can make the joint stiffness and pain of arthritis more pronounced. However, remember these are temporary effects; your symptoms should subside once the weather warms up.
Distinguishing Between Worsening Arthritis and Winter Chill
While it's true that winter weather can amplify arthritis discomfort, it's essential to recognize when your increased discomfort points towards progressing arthritis. If you notice a considerable increase in the intensity or frequency of your joint pain, it could be more than just the winter chill. Similarly, long-lasting stiffness or swelling in your joints, even after warming up, should not be overlooked. An unexpected loss of flexibility or sudden changes in how your joints look or feel may also be red flags of worsening arthritis. These symptoms differ from the regular winter-induced arthritis pain, as they tend not to ease with warming up and persist beyond the cold season.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Monitoring your arthritis symptoms is an integral part of managing your condition. If you observe any sustained changes in your symptoms or experience severe or unusual pain, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Even if the winter chill generally aggravates your arthritis, it's always safer not to assume it's only the weather causing discomfort. Your doctor can evaluate your condition, discern the cause of the increased pain, and suggest changes in your treatment plan if necessary.
Coping with arthritis can be challenging, especially when winter exacerbates your discomfort. However, understanding the distinction between worsening arthritis and the effects of the winter chill can help you identify when to seek medical help. Paying attention to your symptoms and not dismissing changes as merely winter blues can significantly impact your comfort and overall quality of life.
Help at Home for Seniors With Arthritis
Are you a senior living in Santa Rosa, Ukiah, Sebastopol, or Rohnert Park experiencing increased discomfort this winter? At Senior Helpers Santa Rosa Wine Country, we're committed to improving the lives of our senior community and providing exceptional care. If you need help managing at home during the winter and beyond, contact us to discuss our home care services.