How to Survive Arthritis in the Winter
Arthritis can affect every joint in the body, especially during the winter when damp, cold weather makes someone with this condition experience more pain than in any other season. Most of those with the disease have seen their doctors who have prescribed everything from Ibuprofin to the latest designer drugs, all of which often do little to remove the pain during the winter months. If you suffer from arthritis, here are some things you can do to lessen the discomfort.
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Modify your diet. Many people believe that diet has little to do with arthritis pain, but what we eat can have an affect on how we feel, because what we eat plays an important part in both repairing our bodies and fighting the effects of arthritis. For example, many people suffering from arthritis have a tendency toward gout. By eliminating foods that contain uric acid, like organ meats, you can reduce the pain associated with both gout and arthritis. Instead, adopt a diet of cold water fish, skinless poultry, fruit and vegetables, grain products and unsalted nuts.
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Take supplements like glucosamine, condroitin and boron, to overcome pain associated with arthritis. Keep in mind that these supplements can also have a beneficial effect on osteoarthritis and gout. Of course, your physician should be consulted before you begin taking these supplements.
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Drink plenty of liquids, especially during the winter. Because people perspire less when it's cold, they often lose sight of the need to stay hydrated. Try to drink 10 to 12 glasses of liquids daily. This rids the system of toxins, as well as reduces the pain from arthritis.
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Get plenty of rest. Everyone lives stressful lives, but those individuals with arthritis need more rest to keep the pain in check, particularly in the winter.
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Stay warm when the temperature drops. For instance, many people continue to wear shorts, even when the weather gets colder. If they have arthritis, it's likely that their knees will cause them pain to the extent that it may affect their sleep. Instead, if they were to cover their joints with long pants or sweats, they would dull the effects that cold weather has on their arthritis.
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Exercise to stay limber. If you are overweight, shed a few pounds because they add stress to your joints, particularly your ankles and knees. Find exercises that will elevate your heart rate. This will lessen your arthritic pain because your blood flushes toxins from you body, like water. If, after you exercise, you experience pain in your joints, place ice packs on those areas that have been affected.
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