The Role of Humidity in Aggravating Arthritis Symptoms
Humidity, which is the amount of moisture present in the air, has been found to play a role in aggravating arthritis symptoms, especially for those with rheumatoid arthritis. High humidity can lead to increased swelling and stiffness in the joints, making movement much more painful and difficult. The exact reasons why humidity affects arthritis symptoms are not fully understood by doctors and scientists, but it is believed that the moisture in the air, or lack thereof, can contribute to inflammation and joint discomfort.
Managing chronic pain when you’re around fluctuating humidity involves monitoring the humidity levels in your area and making adjustments to your lifestyle. This may include using air conditioning or dehumidifiers to control indoor humidity, avoiding excessive exposure to humid environments outdoors, and doing gentle exercises and stretches to maintain joint flexibility.