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Heather Metz, NP-C shares her insight on some ways to ease your pain flare ups during the summer months.
Have you ever noticed that your pain increases when weather changes? You’re not just imagining it, and you may be experiencing worsening or increased pain as a result. Barometric pressure, or air pressure changes, can cause pain flares for chronic pain sufferers. Warmer weather is also known to trigger headaches, fibromyalgia symptoms, and increased arthritis pain or joint swelling.
How to Deal with Pain Flares During Heat Waves
If your chronic pain is worse during the hot summer months, or you experience pain flare-ups more often, there are several great ways to help!
- Take a dip: A great way to deal with pain is swimming or soaking in a cool bath or pool. Water takes pressure off your joints and helps keep you cool. As a bonus, swimming is a great way to exercise.
- Dress for the weather: When it’s hot, wear loose fitting clothing. Tight clothing is uncomfortable and can cause your body to overheat.
- Stay hydrated: Another way to stay cool is to drink plenty of water. Preventing dehydration is an important factor in avoiding additional pain flares caused by electrolyte imbalances.
- Quick cool down: Apply an ice pack or cool washcloth to your neck or wrists to help cool off. This can help you beat the heat, but also decrease inflammation to your joints.
- Staying indoors: Spend time in the air conditioning (if you have it) to keep your pain flares more manageable.
Weather changes are inevitable here in Michigan, so having tools to manage your chronic pain during these summer months will keep your pain under better control and keep you more comfortable.
