Weather has long been considered a factor influencing human health and well-being, with anecdotal reports that changes in weather patterns can affect various aspects of physical and emotional health. Weather is often thought to have an effect on pain, in particular. Many people report experiencing increased pain or discomfort during certain weather conditions, while others remain skeptical about the existence of such a connection.
Numerous studies have investigated the effect of weather on pain, particularly among individuals with chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines. While findings have been mixed, some research suggests a correlation between certain weather variables and pain intensity or frequency. Changes in temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and precipitation have been implicated as potential triggers for increased pain perception in some individuals 1,2.
The exact mechanisms underlying the relationship between weather and pain are not fully understood, but several hypotheses have been proposed. Changes in barometric pressure may affect joint fluid pressure, causing the expansion or contraction of tissues and exacerbating pain in individuals with arthritis or other musculoskeletal conditions. Additionally, alterations in atmospheric pressure may influence nerve sensitivity, blood flow, inflammation, and the release of pain-related neurotransmitters, contributing to increased pain perception 3.
Temperature and humidity are also commonly cited as factors influencing pain perception. Cold weather may exacerbate joint stiffness and discomfort in individuals with arthritis, while hot and humid conditions may trigger migraines or exacerbate symptoms of fibromyalgia. Furthermore, changes in temperature can affect blood flow and circulation, potentially impacting pain sensitivity and perception in affected individuals 3,4.
While scientific evidence on the effect of weather on pain remains inconclusive, many individuals report experiencing fluctuations in pain intensity or frequency in response to changes in weather patterns. Recognizing and understanding these associations can help individuals better manage their pain and make informed decisions about lifestyle adjustments, such as staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing self-care strategies during periods of inclement weather 5.
To ease pain associated with cold weather, it can be helpful to take warm showers, use an electric blanket to stay warm at night, keep the home well heated, take a paraffin bath, and take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed. Engaging in regular gentle exercise like yoga and swimming that mobilizes the body while not straining the joints can be beneficial as well. Finally, good quality sleep and nutrition are also key to minimizing any effects of weather on an individual’s pain 6.
In conclusion, the effect of weather on pain is a complex question that continues to be the subject of scientific inquiry and debate. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between weather and pain is and to determine potential therapeutic interventions for weather-related pain. In the meantime, individuals living with chronic pain conditions can benefit from staying informed, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and seeking support from healthcare professionals to manage their symptoms effectively.
References
1. Horvath, G., Nagy, K., Tuboly, G. & Nagy, E. Pain and weather associations – Action mechanisms; personalized profiling. Brain Res. Bull. 200, 110696 (2023). doi: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110696.
2. Wang, L., Xu, Q., Chen, Y., Zhu, Z. & Cao, Y. Associations between weather conditions and osteoarthritis pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann. Med. 55, 2196439 (2023). doi: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2196439
3. What triggers weather-related joint pain? – Harvard Health. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/what-triggers-weather-related-joint-pain. (Accessed: 17th March 2024)
4. Jamison, R. N., Anderson, K. O. & Slater, M. A. Weather changes and pain: perceived influence of local climate on pain complaint in chronic pain patients. Pain 61, 309–315 (1995). doi: 10.1016/0304-3959(94)00215-Z.
5. Dixon, W. G. et al. How the weather affects the pain of citizen scientists using a smartphone app. npj Digit. Med. 2019 21 2, 1–9 (2019). doi: 10.1038/s41746-019-0180-3
6. Weather & Joint Pain: Why Your Joints Hurt When It’s Raining or Cold. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/weather-and-joint-pain. (Accessed: 17th March 2024)