“A cloudy day or a little sunshine have as great influence on may conditions as the most recent blessings or misfortune” quoted by Jospeh Addison.
Taking a note from the quote we can infer that the weather an have various effects and also have certain effects on people diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Both extreme hot and cold weather can aggravate the existing symptoms. In the case of extreme cold temperatures can cause muscle stiffness, shivering, fatigue, etc. In case of hot or humid whether they face similar symptoms like muscle stiffness, tremors, and fatigue
There have been cases reported where seasonal changes also have a severe effect of the people with Parkinson’s. There have been reported discomfort and increasing or worsening of the symptoms like tremors or muscle stiffness.
It is important to understand that weather can have serious effects on people diagnosed with Parkinson’s as studies have found that the symptoms can get more serious as whether changes can cause a change in the whether causes an imbalance in the body fluid potentially leading to stiffness.
While it is important to be in a place with good whether for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s, though it not possible to find perfect whether it is important to take precautions in hot or cold weather. Some ways to take careful measures during extreme weather are:
- Wearing warm clothes during winters to reduce stiffness and light clothing during summers to prevent overheating
- Staying hydrated is another important factor to escape hot and humid weathers to prevent dehydration and maintain an optimal body temperature
- Temperature control devices like air-conditioning during summers and rooms heaters for the winter.
- Planning outdoor activities wisely is another important step to taking care of the body. It better to avoid going out during the peak heat times like afternoons or during extreme cold temperatures. It is more suggested to go out during the evening or when the temperature is not too extreme. In case one is going out during a peak heat time it is suggested to take small breaks in the shade and rest.
In conclusion, weather can have a significant effect on individuals living with Parkinson’s. Extreme temperatures, humidity, seasonal changes all have significant effect leading to discomfort. While it is not possible to take control over the weather one can always take measures to combat the weather.
