Every time the weather changes, for those suffering from arthritis the symptoms only get worse – causing immense pain and inflammation. According to experts, while the autumn season is a sweet spot for Rheumatoid arthritis, winter and spring are the most challenging. However, a recent study found that humidity makes pain worse, especially in rainy weather.

Statistics say there are an estimated 17.6 million people across the world suffering from RA and the number has increased over 120 per cent since 1990. While about 70 per cent of people with RA are women, more than 55 per cent are older than 55 years of age.

Even though experts are not completely sure why seasonal changes affect the condition, most doctors blame it on the shifts in barometric pressure. This makes your tendons, muscles, and scar tissue expand or contract, which causes immense pain and inflammation. And so, when humidity arises, a drop in the barometric pressure begins to thicken fluid in your joints, which causes stiffness as well.

A few also say your mood may play an important role. Warm, sunny days not only boost your spirits but also make you feel physically active. Apart from that, long periods of inactivity during the rain can make your joints more stiff and painful.

Since you may not feel too thirsty during monsoon, it is essential to drink enough water. With increased humidity during the rainy season, the body loses more sweat, and dehydration increases the symptoms of arthritis.

According to doctors, a few ways you can manage your debilitating symptoms, especially during the rains, include:

Keeping yourself warm reduces joint stiffness so, it is important to keep away from getting wet as well

Gentle exercises like stretching, yoga, and swimming keep your joints flexible and reduce pain. Also, you can try fun activities like walking, biking, water aerobics, and dancing. Always do gentle stretches before you exercise.

According to experts, your mood plays an important role in how you feel. Dark, gloomy days can lower your energy, making the pain even worse. So, make sure to indulge in things that could help you improve your mood like working out, walking, eating, and socializing with family and friends.

Make sure to increase the consumption of a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables can help manage arthritis pain. Totally avoid processed foods and sugar – which can increase inflammation.

Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help maintain joint lubrication and reduce pain.

Regular massages and physiotherapy sessions can improve blood flow and reduce stiffness in the joints.