
How Cold Weather Worsens Chronic Conditions and What Patients Can Do
Key Takeaways
- Cold weather exacerbates arthritis, cardiovascular, respiratory, mental health, and skin conditions, necessitating proactive management strategies.
- Arthritis and chronic pain worsen in winter; low-impact exercises and vitamin D can help alleviate symptoms.
Strategies to help patients with chronic conditions stay healthy and avoid complications this winter.
As temperatures drop, winter can become a challenging season for individuals with chronic health conditions.
The cold, dry air, reduced sunlight, and increased risks of respiratory infections combine to exacerbate symptoms for
Arthritis and Chronic Pain
For individuals with
To manage these challenges, staying physically active is key. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or yoga, can help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness. It’s important to check with a health care professional about what exercises are best to make sure your arthritis is not aggravated by overexertion.
Individuals can also dress warmly, layer clothing to retain heat, and use heating pads or warm baths to soothe sore areas—a tip that stretches beyond managing chronic conditions in the winter. Beyond over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications, experts say vitamin D can also help maintain proper body function while alleviating pain and stiffness. Patients can increase their vitamin D levels by incorporating fatty fish and seafood into meals, using a UV light, or taking a supplement.
Cardiovascular Disease
Cold weather can be dangerous for people with
Patients should avoid sudden, strenuous outdoor activities in freezing temperatures, especially if they have existing heart conditions. Regularly monitoring blood pressure and adhering to prescribed medications are critical for staying safe during winter months.
Respiratory Conditions
People with
Patients with asthma or other respiratory or pulmonary conditions should wear a scarf or mask over their nose and mouth when going outside to warm and humidify the air they breathe.4 Using a humidifier indoors can help maintain air moisture, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, and
Mental Health
To combat SAD, patients can explore treatments such as light therapy, which involves exposure to a bright light box to mimic natural sunlight, or cognitive behavioral therapy tailored to SAD to address negative thoughts linked to seasonal changes. Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may help regulate mood, and vitamin D supplementation can help address deficiencies. These strategies, along with engaging in enjoyable activities and staying socially connected, offer actionable steps to manage SAD and improve quality of life during the colder months.
Chronic Skin Conditions
The dry, cold air of winter often aggravates conditions like
Patients are advised to use thick, fragrance-free moisturizers regularly, particularly after bathing.1 Limiting hot showers and using gentle soaps can also help preserve the skin's natural moisture barrier. In addition to helping patients with respiratory conditions like asthma, installing a humidifier in the home may also provide relief to those with dry skin by adding moisture to the air. Persistent symptoms may require a visit to a dermatologist for prescription treatments.
References
- Perrin J. 5 conditions that cold weather makes worse and how to cope. AARP. December 4, 2024. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2024/health-conditions-that-worsen-in-cold-weather.html - How colder weather affects chronic pain. Spine Diagnostic & Pain Treatment Center. February 8, 2024. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://spinediagnostic.com/how-colder-weather-affects-chronic-pain/ - Your heart in winter: tips to manage heart health in the cold. Northwestern Medicine. November 2022. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/Your-Heart-in-Winter - Mumm EM. Why asthma is worse in winter. Temple Health. February 24, 2021. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/why-asthma-worse-in-winter - Steinzor P. What you need to know about seasonal affective disorder. AJMC®. December 4, 2024. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://www.ajmc.com/view/what-you-need-to-know-about-seasonal-affective-disorder - Health conditions that worsen in cold weather. Northwestern Medicine. Updated September 2022. Accessed December 9, 2024.
https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/health-conditions-that-worsen-in-cold-weather
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