Well, it’s certainly a turn up for the books. We’ve had just over a month of the sweltering summer sun. We all know it usually lasts the duration of the leaving cert but this year we’ve had 4 long weeks so far with no end in sight.
It is because of this that we wanted to share a few quick tips on how you can manage your arthritis in the summer sun. If you or a loved one live with arthritis, you know that the warmer weather is not all its cracked up to be. When it comes to the heat, many can experience a flare up. The warmer it is outside the higher the chances or your body swelling which can lead to pain. So, without further ado, we have 5 key tips to help you through the summer sun this year.
How to Avoid a Flare Up:
To help avoid a flare up, make sure you keep an eye on the weather forecast. Make life even easier for yourself and download the weather app on your mobile phone and set it to your location so you are always in the know. Many people have reported joint stiffness can get worse in the warmer weather which can lead to pain in the joints.
Planning an preparation are key when it comes to living with arthritis so be in the know with your weather app and plan your days accordingly.
The Importance of Dressing Comfortably:
It’s important to make sure you are comfortable in the sun – this is why we would recommend light and breathable cotton fabrics to help keep you cool. Many people experience swelling in their hand, wrists and ankles during the warmer weather so don’t forget comfortable shoes as the swelling can become rather uncomfortable. Light and comfy shoes will put less pressure on your ankles and toe joints. So, when it down, sandals out!
Why You Should Protect Your Skin:
We would recommend talking to your doctor for this but did you know that some medications prescribed or arthritis can make your skin for more sensitive to sunlight? This is why it’s important to remember:
- To spend time in the shade – especially in peak heat which is between 12 pm – 3pm
- Avoid the darker coloured clothes – splash out in the pastels – they don’t attract the heat as much as will keep you at a normal regulated temperature.
- Use sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30 that also has a4 or 4 UVA stars. This will help keep you from burning. Don’t forget to re-apply every hour if you are in the sun the entire day.
Keeping on Top of Low-Impact Exercise:
No matter what your current situation is, we all know that exercise is important to help keep your weight down. For those of you living with arthritis, weight management will help keep added pressure off of your joints.
It’s crucial to remember that with arthritis, low-impact exercise/sports are best. This can include walking, cycling and swimming. This time of year, I know what I would choose more.
Don’t Forget to Hydrate:
While we Irish are known to frequent the odd beer garden or two – its important to hydrate with the right liquids. Plenty of water will help to keep your cartilage soft and hydrated and allow the nutrients to move easily to your joints.
Why not go down the eco friendly root and get yourself a swanky reusable water bottle? Keeping one on or near you at all times will remind you to drink regularly.
Of course, mistakes happen and you could misplace or forget your water bottle so remember the following list of water rich fruit and veg and try to add them to your daily food intake to help.
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Oranges
- Pineapples
- Peaches
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Celery
Don’t forget, while it may seem absurd – a cuppa can help you cool down on a warm day. So if you live with arthritis, why not give the Uccello Kettle a try today. No pain, all gain!
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