There are pathologies that can worsen during the winter season for climatic reasons related to low temperatures and humidity. In particular, we refer to rheumatic diseases that are not caused by the cold as the Veronesi Foundation points out, but can be affected by it (and the Humanitas Research Institute highlights this). Meanwhile, the Foundation alone for arthritis and osteoarthritis accounts for a percentage equal to 16% of Italians while osteoporosis concerns 7.6% of the population. There are also about 150 types of rheumatic diseases that differ in both causes and symptoms. These are the Foundation’s data as of 2018. The following information is of a general nature and can only be indicative, although it is based on authoritative sources. Every detail, doubt or advice should always be asked to your trusted and referring doctor.
How to prepare for the cold if we suffer from these diseases so as not to risk worsening further
Meanwhile, according to the Humanitas Institute, the winter season can represent a delicate period for those suffering from rheumatic diseases for the simple fact that inflammation tends to worsen with colder temperatures. Especially those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis could experience worsening during the winter. Often the parts most involved are the hands which are often the site of arthritis or osteoarthritis and the back. The reference is to back pain which occurs perhaps at a young age, lasts several weeks and gets worse with rest. In similar cases, according to the Humanitas Institute, the cold would be a bad travel companion. It is always important to consult and discuss with your doctor. However, in general there are some general tips that could help us face the season better.
Physical activity
The Veronesi Foundation loudly claims that physical activity would be a real cure-all also because it would help to preserve muscle tone and defend joint mobility. It is no coincidence that in the winter period we often move even less and this does not help at all. So to know how to prepare for the cold if we suffer from these diseases in order not to risk further worsening, let’s put a minimum of motion first. Always to be defined and decided with your doctor. But it is important to consider the idea and this is mainly up to us. We also try to fight and ban smoking and fight obesity because according to the Foundation a healthy lifestyle is fundamental.
Conclusion
So by taking good care of nutrition, weight and practicing physical activity (without smoking) we could help us especially in terms of prevention. However, it is important to make these assumptions a regular and long-lasting lifestyle, otherwise we would not be able to test the results.